Cash grant for Derby Theatre

The money will be used to make essential upgrades to the theatre’s heating and ventilation system, making the building greener to reduce long term costs.

It is one of three organisations in the East Midlands to be successful in the latest round of investment from the Arts Council’s small capital programme.

Sarah Brigham, artistic director and chief executive at Derby Theatre, said: “We are delighted that the Arts Council is supporting us in developing our infrastructure - the money will go towards creating a state of the art ventilation and heating system which will allow us to both meet our environmental expectations and also deliver a 21st century audience experience.

“As the work on the Derby Theatre stage is going from strength to strength, it’s vital that the fabric of the building also reflects this, and we are pleased the Arts Council has shown this confidence in supporting us in this way.”

Upgrades to the heating system will make the theatre more comfortable for audiences, actors and staff. The installation of solar panels will reduce maintenance costs and minimise the building’s impact on the local environment.

Peter Knott, area director for Arts Council England, said: “Derby Theatre is one of the jewels in Derby’s cultural crown and we’re delighted to be investing in plans to make sure its building is fit for the future. By helping to make the building more economically and environmentally sustainable, we hope our investment will support the region’s creative economy to thrive.”