The White Rock Theatre (image supplied by WRT)

The Guildhall Trust becomes the new operator of the White Rock Theatre

From 1 February, the Guildhall Trust took over the tenure of Hastings’ much-loved White Rock Theatre. To mark the occasion, a launch party was held in the theatre to meet the new operators, including the Chair, CEO and team members of the Trust, plus White Rock Theatre Director, Nadine Passley and the venue team who are transferring to the new operator.  HOT’s Paul Way-Rider attended the event.

The launch party, attended by approx 100 people from a variety of areas of Hastings’ life, was held upstairs in the Circle Bar. Among the many notable locals were Julia Hilton (the new council leader), Adam Daley (Hastings Fat Tuesday organiser), Keith Leech (chairman, Hastings Jack in the Green) and Andrew Hemsley (writer and journalist).

Mark Turner (left) and Andy Grays address the invitees.

After about 45 minutes for people to socialise and enjoy the food and drinks provided,  there was a short address by Andy Grays (CEO of the Guildhall Trust – a registered charity) and Mark Turner (Chairman of the board of trustees). Both were enthusiastic about the future of the White Rock Theatre. Andy Grays said,  “We are grateful to the local authority to give us this chance to embed in the local community and will work closely with them as valuable partners – not necessarily through funding but through conversation and clear communication ”

Guildhall Trust launch event at the White Rock Theatre

Their wide-ranging plans for the White Rock Theatre include:

• Broadening the diversity of the offer at the White Rock to widen engagement;
• Investing in a superior PA system that will make the venue more attractive to some of the bigger music promoters;
• Investing in the quality of the programme – for example, developing the classical provision on offer;
• Plans to develop the Studio into an active performance and community space and deliver a programme of community events that engage the region;
• Working with the team at the White Rock, who already deliver workshops, classes and opportunities for adults and young people, to develop the Get Involved programme and a Creative Skills development programme for schools;
• Introducing Dance Live! – their dance contest for schools and colleges, into the venue;
• Introducing a new box office system into White Rock with ticketing partner, Eventim.Inhouse.

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