OUR FUTURE

We are thrilled to announce plans for a significant reconfiguration of our 130-year old building following the success of a £150,000 fundraising campaign. This redevelopment project will transform our current building to suit the needs of our rapidly growing theatre.

Marks Barfield, the architects behind one of London’s most iconic landmarks, The London Eye, are spearheading the design of a new café/bar/creative hub space, the reconfiguration of an existing rehearsal room and office space.

We have big dreams for our home. One of our most pressing priorities is to move towards self-sufficiency. Omnibus Theatre does not receive any guaranteed funding and investment in the arts is steadily diminishing. We need to create enough dependable income to ensure that Omnibus Theatre’s work continues to thrive.

The redevelopment will enable us to increase our outreach and participation programmes. Activities taking place in the café/bar will also include storytelling sessions, afterschool clubs and creative writing workshops.

The plans were approved by Lambeth Council last month, and following a consultation process with the local community, Contractors begin the building work in August with completion in time for the launch of our Autumn 2019 season.

The Stage, June 2019→
WhatsOnStage, August 2019→

“The fundraising campaign is an important step to improving the accessibility of our theatre. The new and improved spaces will enrich the experience for both audiences and theatre-makers who use our facilities on a daily basis. My aim is for Omnibus Theatre to be an approachable and inclusive destination with an artistic programme and initiatives that reflect the diversity of the community.”
Marie McCarthy, Artistic Director

Existing Floor Plan
Proposed Floor Plan

As an organisation that does not receive any guaranteed funding, we owe a huge debt of gratitude to everyone involved in the success of our £150,000 fundraising campaign. Special thanks go to The April Trust, The Rank Foundation and members of our 1889 Circle.

“It’s an exciting new phase for our venue. The new café/bar will create a welcoming local social space and make the building feel closer to people living in Clapham and those who might be nervous about crossing the threshold into a theatre.”
Fiona Mactaggart, Chair

Week 1 Gallery
Week 2 Gallery
With Special Thanks To

Lead architects
Julia Barfield, Marks Barfield

Consultant
Bruce Thompson, Dorrington PLC

Project surveyor
Gareth Alexander, Partner, Calford Seaden
Julia​ Webb, Group Building Surveyor, Dorrington PLC

Acoustician
Paul Gilleron.

Design
Tim Gosling

Catering Consultant
Piers Sturridge

Technical Coordinator for Omnibus Theatre
Roddy Gye

Contractors
BSPS