Putney Arts Theatre

FULLY BOOKED FOR WAF2024 . Putney Arts Theatre was formerly the Old Union Chapel, and the building dates from the mid-19th Century. Group 64 took over the disused and neglected church in 1968. Hard, voluntary work has transformed it into the theatre you see today, supported by kind donations and, latterly, a lottery award via the Arts Council. The main auditorium was reconstructed in 1994 and the studio and bar areas in 1998, when the exterior of the building was also stone cleaned. In 2008 the studio space was upgraded and renamed the Antony Bridges Studio, with new roof and lighting rig. In 2018 the main stage space was upgrade with a new lighting rig, and is known as the Goodrich Theatre. THE GOODRICH THEATRE The main auditorium seats 155, and the stage measures 41' by 30'. Although the auditorium is usually arranged in the traditional proscenium style, much of the seating is flexible and recent shows have experimented successfully with performing in the round. THE ANTONY BRIDGES STUDIO THEATRE The studio theatre is a 'black box' measuring approximately 16' by 26'. It can seat up to 46 and is perfect for creating a smaller, intimate setting, where the audience can be seated almost within touching distance of the actors. The venue is also used as a rehearsal space. THE BAR/FRONT OF HOUSE The bar is an ideal space for meetings, rehearsals, private parties and exhibitions. The work of local artists is regularly displayed here, and many paintings or other exhibits are available for sale. The bar is staffed by voluntary front of house staff and is open every performance night before the show begins and during the interval.