University News Last updated 31 October
Acting alumni John Partridge and Catherine Prout have opened Rother Street Arts House, giving the community arts venue, previously known as Stratford Play House, a fresh new identity.
This venue is the latest addition to the pair’s theatre company, Tread the Boards, which has been running in Stratford-upon-Avon for 16 years. Tread the Boards has given many alumni their first job opportunities after graduating, opening the door to the arts industry.
Fellow Acting alumni Emily Tietz and Rosie Coles have contributed to the opening of the theatre as Event Managers. Alumna Abigail Drennan has also worked on the opening, as a freelance practitioner.
Going forwards, the 450-seat theatre will host a variety of comedy, music, poetry, theatre, cinema and more.
John says: "I am looking forward to this exciting challenge. The Rother Street Arts House is a sleeping giant in Warwickshire, and we hope to connect with new and returning audiences to put the building back where it belongs. We will welcome new and established comedians, musician and spoken word artists, as well as bringing pantomime and exciting community events to the area.
“We are delighted to once again be working and employing RBC graduates, many of whom I trained at the Conservatoire. Having graduated from the Drama School in 2008 myself, I feel it is so important to offer actors, stage managers and directors their first job in the performing industry and give them a wealth of experience and skills to continue on their journey.”
Check out what’s on at Rother Street Arts House.