Sheringham Theatre targets sustainability with £45,000 grant

Sheringham Little Theatre is using a £45,000 grant from North Norfolk District Council’s businesses and community fund to revamp its changing rooms, scenery dock, and backstage access.

The council has owned the theatre building since 1974 and has previously supported the arts venue with refurbishment works like the updated Hub coffee bar and energy-efficient windows.

In addition, an antiquated gas boiler is being replaced with two air source heat pumps, thanks to a contribution from the Sheringham Shoal wind farm’s Community Fund.

Unseen but vital work to benefit audiences and actors is being carried out behind the scenes at Sheringham Little Theatre (Image: Submitted)

This upgrade will improve heating for the audience in the auditorium and the Hub coffee bar.

Theatre director Debbie Thompson, said: “As a charity-run theatre we can just about cover our arts activities as a going concern, but have to seek help when we have the need for sudden capital investment.

“Getting grants like these is fantastic so we can carry out the improvements we need that will help reduce our bills and increase our sustainability.”

The council’s portfolio holder for sustainable growth, John Toye, said: "Assisting much-loved places like the Little Theatre and helping them to accomplish things like better energy efficiency or opening up more opportunities to support the community, is essential to growing north Norfolk.”

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Colin Galer, wind farm power plant manager, expressed his pleasure at supporting the theatre.

He said: “Sheringham Little Theatre is so much more than just a theatre.

"It plays an important role in the local community via its volunteer-led café and community projects, including schools and youth services outreach projects.

"It provides a safe and welcoming venue for local residents and visitors to north Norfolk.”