November 04, 2019

The Theatre Chipping Norton

The Theatre Chipping Norton, sometimes referred to as the The Theatre, Chipping Norton is an unique arts venue which originally started life as a Salvation Army Citadel, in 1888. The premises was then used as a warehouse for furniture, until it was "rediscovered" in 1968. After a period of fundraising, it was opened as a theatre in 1974. Over the next few years, the adjoining properties were purchased and anexxed into the theatre to serve as space for a bar, a gallery, the green rooms, offices and a rehearsal space. The theatre underwent a major refurbishment in 1996 which was part funded by the Arts Council England.

At present, the Theatre Chipping Norton is a more than just a theatre. It also serves as an arthouse cinema, a gallery and a concert hall. They produce and co-produce exclusive shows and content as well as host a wide variety of travelling shows and plays.

The Theatre prides itself on being a platform for diverse acts ranging from comedy, opera, musicals, pantomimes, plays, satire, classics and much more.

In the Theatre's own words;

" We are a resource for our community, but we are also a professional venue, welcoming over 55,000 customer visits every year. We are something unique, but we are also different things to different people. We are the cause and subject of many arguments and debates, and a fair amount of acclaim and affection. We are complicated and a little eccentric. We are not a little theatre. We like to make a big noise."

In the heart of the Cotswolds, at the junction point of three counties and four regions, The Theatre Chipping Norton is a mixed arts venue, hosting, co-producing and supporting some of the most exciting, accessible and entertaining culture in the region. Our extensive community and education programmes engage with thousands of people each year through workshops, classes and creative projects, and we develop creative work through Associate Companies, curated festivals and commissioned projects."

"So charming it almost hurts" – The Daily Mail

We are a hub for local people, businesses and organisations to meet, work, play and be entertained. Come and join us and see why so many people have fallen for The Theatre Chipping Norton, and why it remains a local and regional treasure.