A leading London theatre has been given a major boost in their bid to relocate to a new multi-million pound home in Brixton.
The Ovalhouse have been granted an initial £130,600 by Arts Council England, which is the first stage in a £3 million boost to help with the move.
They have already raised £6.5 million for the project, which involves creating a new hub for theatre in Brixton, with two theatre spaces and seven multi-use accessible studios.
Deborah Bestwick MBE, the Director of Ovalhouse, said: “Being in Brixton means that within our work with artists who are bringing the best of the new in theatre we will develop a sense of place: Brixton rooted, Brixton facing. But in a way which brings a perspective to our city and beyond.”
Ovalhouse now need a further £2 million to complete their fundraising, which they have launched a Capital Campaign for.
Bestwick added: “Our Capital Campaign Director Katie Milton has a well worked out strategy – we will now be continuing our conversations with the Trusts and Foundations, we have some significant pledges from our networks of supporters, but it is also important that we make lots of opportunities for the artists, audiences and participants who feel part of the Ovalhouse family to make their contribution and feel that the new Ovalhouse is theirs too.”
Arts Council England London Area Director Joyce Wilson said: “Ovalhouse has grand but achievable aims for their new home. The relocation will allow a more accessible building in growing and vibrant part of Brixton.
“It will help cement Ovalhouse’s role as a developer of diverse artists and experts of inclusion.
“We look forward to seeing the second stage of its application so that we can help get this exciting project off the ground, and see its benefits across London.”
The new arts hub will also focus on helping youths, offering professional opportunities and some skills training to people in the local area.
The project has received widespread support from a number of people across the arts, ranging from local councilors to Hollywood actors.
Cllr Lib Peck, the leader of the local Lambeth Council, said: “What a wonderful start to the new year and I’m absolutely delighted for Deborah and the Ovalhouse team whose determination and hard work has secured this investment, against stiff competition around the country.
“This is well deserved and a huge vote of confidence in the new theatre and in Lambeth.”
Former James Bond actor Pierce Brosnan has welcomed the grant, calling it “great news”.
“2016 has started where 2015 left off, with great news for Ovalhouse. This, combined with the approval of planning permission, means that we are in a really strong position to make this vital move happen,” said the Irish actor.
He added: “I feel that we are casting a line into the future that will enable Ovalhouse to continue to have the same kind of profound positive influence on the lives of young people as it had on mine.”
The new building will be situated on Somerleyton Road and Coldharbour Lane, and aims to be completed by 2018.
The Ovalhouse have received a six-figure grant to help their move to Brixton. For more information, click here.