'Theatre still rooted in community after 50 years'

A theatre that took up residence in a former college gymnasium is preparing to mark its 50th birthday.

The Arena Theatre was founded at the University of Wolverhampton in the 1970s as part of its growing commitment to drama.

It grew from the vision of Philip Tilstone, the university's first lecturer in drama, and "quickly became a vital cultural hub" for the city and West Midlands, the university said.

The venue, which marks its birthday on 3 March, pledged to continue supporting emerging artists and diverse voices "ensuring theatre remains accessible, relevant and rooted in its community for generations to come".

Over the past five decades, it has hosted thousands of performers, experimental theatre, dance and music and "remained deeply rooted to the Wolverhampton community", the university added.

"We are delighted to be celebrating this important milestone for the venue," said Neil Reading, the theatre's artistic director.

"What began as a renegade expression of creativity, has become a hub for new and developing artists representing the diverse audiences of our city, providing crucial cultural experiences for the thousands of visitors we welcome every year.

"As we reflect on the past we look to our future and our continued service to our city, our region and our audiences."

Among its standout moments, said the university, was a major development made possible through a £1.25m lottery grant in 1999.

It transformed the venue into a modern theatre and teaching complex and "cemented its reputation as one of the most accessible theatres in the country, which it still maintains to this day".

Its community involvement has included working closely with Mosaic Disability Theatre, including providing a free weekly rehearsal space and production support.

It also runs the Grand Arena Youth Theatre, in partnership with Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, for 11 to 16 year olds.

The university said the theatre was conceived as a "shared space" for students, professional artists and local audiences and has also hosted some of the UK's most respected touring companies, alongside international work.

Among its success stories Jamie Harley, its former head of lighting who began training at the theatre aged 14, has gone on to work on national productions, including Starlight Express and the Hunger Games.

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