NVT teams up with Gloucester Arts Council

An ambitious project to establish the Olympus Theatre in Gloucester into a community arts centre is underway. After a couple of decades of ups and downs, the Olympus Theatre received a tremendous boost in its bid to be renovated to its former glory with  the amazing donation of 450 beautiful seats from the Royal Circle of the Theatre Royal Drury Lane. Read more Watch TV news coverage here

The Olympus Theatre, built in 1923, later converted into the Picturedrome, then used as a Mecca Bingo Hall, has come full circle and will become a community arts centre offering space and facilities for the widest possible range of expressive arts.

Engaging with the University of Gloucestershire, Gloucester College and dozens of local organisations and companies who have already pledged their support, Gloucester Arts Council, led by the charismatic Phil McCormick, is working hard to scope out the schedule of works and plan for a bright future.

Such is the enthusiastic response from the community though, some school groups are already clamouring to use the premises as they are.

Jeremy Irons and Simon Pegg have already recognised the project and kindly agreed to be patrons. Read more

New Ventures Trust is delighted to be associated with this project and very excited at the prospect of working with apprentices who will help with the renovations and student artists who will paint the ceiling panels. Community groups, creative practitioners and schools will benefit for years to come from this wonderful iconic venue in the heart of the city. Read more