Organised by Theatres Trust, the Great British Theatres Awards recognise theatres and the people behind them that are making an outstanding contribution to the UK’s cultural life. The awards were launched as part of Theatres Trust’s 50th anniversary celebrations.
Polka theatre is a finalist in Great Community Connection as well as Great Public Space award. The latter recognises theatres with spaces beyond the auditorium that are well loved and well used by their communities. Polka’s Y C Chan PlayDen has been recognised in this category for its role as a welcoming and accessible space within the theatre.
Polka Theatre is a pioneering children’s theatre in Wimbledon, founded in 1979 as the UK’s first venue dedicated exclusively to children. Its mission is to create inspiring, accessible theatre and creative experiences that give every child the opportunity to imagine, explore and express themselves.
Foster Wilson Size undertook a major re-development of the Polka Theatre in 2021. Re-imagining what a dedicated children’s theatre could be, the extensive transformation aimed to improve the quality and functionality of the space, providing a vibrant hub for the local community and beyond.
Hoxton Hall is also a finalist for Great Community Connection, recognising theatres that go beyond their core role to welcome and engage their communities through their buildings, programming and outreach.
Hoxton Hall is a Grade II listed Victorian music hall in East London, built in 1863 and with a long history at the heart of the local community. It works to use arts and creativity to transform lives and build belonging by connecting artists with the diverse communities of Hackney.
Foster Wilson Size worked with Hoxton Hall to restore and renew this important Victorian music hall, improving its facilities and accessibility while carefully preserving its historic character. The project has helped secure the building’s future as a vibrant performance and community arts venue.
We wish them both good luck for the Awards Ceremony in November.
