Plans for a new theatre in Ealing that could bring West End productions to the borough will be discussed by Ealing Council next week.
Given the success over many years of the Ealing Summer Festivals programme which has used Walpole Park for a temporary venue, the proposal is for a 1,200-seat theatre in a temporary structure in Walpole Park for 3 years. At the end of the lease period, the theatre would be removed and that area restored to public parkland. If approved, it would be funded, run and managed by Troubadour Theatres Limited, which already runs theatres in Canary Wharf and Wembley Park and has another planned in Greenwich. Troubadour works with production companies from around the world to host West End and Broadway shows such as Hunger Games, Starlight Express and War Horse.
The council’s decision-making cabinet is due to look at the proposals at a meeting next Wednesday (9 September).
‘World class performing arts’
Council leader Peter Mason said: “This administration promised to bring world class performing arts to the borough. We know that our high streets are struggling and this proposal will breathe new life into the Broadway encouraging visitors from all over the world.
“Such a big, new cultural attraction could boost our local economy and job opportunities – especially for cafes, shops and restaurants in West Ealing and Ealing Broadway. It will also help more people enjoy incredible live entertainment on their doorstep at more affordable prices. It’s potentially a fantastic opportunity and, therefore, it is one we look forward to exploring with residents.”
The proposal includes plans for a box office, foyer and bar alongside the fully-heated and air-conditioned theatre itself. If approved, the temporary venue would be there for 3 years and would help test demand for a permanent theatre elsewhere in the borough. Work could begin on site in the new year, and the theatre could open by next Easter.
Councillor Mason added: “It’s important to stress that this is a temporary proposal. If approved, the theatre would be in place for a limited period before this section of Walpole Park is restored and returned to full use as parkland. This gives us the opportunity to test whether Ealing can support a theatre of this scale while protecting Walpole Park for future generations.”
Chance to find out more
Councillor Lauren Wall, the council’s cabinet member for thriving communities, said: “One of the ambitions in our cultural manifesto is to make it easier for everyone to enjoy great cultural experiences in the borough. A theatre of this calibre could give residents the chance to enjoy world-class productions closer to home while helping us become a cultural destination for west London. That is why we are looking at this proposal.”
If the proposal to grant a lease to Troubadour Theatre is approved by cabinet next week, there will be several opportunities for residents and businesses to have their say.
Before any final decision is made, the council will carry out a formal consultation on the proposed lease of part of Walpole Park. Residents and businesses will also be able to comment on the planning application.
Troubadour Theatres and the council will be holding engagement events in the autumn for residents to find out more about the proposals.
Councillor Wall added: “We know residents will have questions as well as ideas, and we want to hear them. That’s why I’d encourage everyone to get involved in the engagement events and consultation.”
Further details on the engagement events will be available on AroundEaling.com – and you can sign up for our weekly email updates.
