Historical theatre to become more accessible

A campaign to make a historical theatre more accessible has surpassed its planned target by more than £5,000.

A fundraising appeal started earlier this year by Bradford Playhouse, on Peckover Street in Little Germany, reached just over its original £10,000 target.

However, the theatre company said in a post on social media that a volunteer had donated an extra £5,000 on the final day before fundraising closed, bringing their total up to £15,135.

Director Megan Wilson said the original target was set up to help "ensure that every member of our community can experience the joy of live theatre".

She said: "This project is about breaking down barriers and making the arts accessible to everyone.

"We're asking our audiences, supporters and the wider community to help us make this happen."

The money will go towards adding a lift from the street level to the bar in the art deco building, as well as a new washroom and accessible toilets.

The internal work will further include a new doorway, the removal of metal additions from the 1990s and a repaint of the building – essentially restoring much of its 1930s design.

The building is also currently being given an external makeover after works were approved by Bradford Council in February.

Bradford Playhouse has been at the heart of the city's cultural scene since the 1930s.

Bradford playwright JB Priestley, who wrote the acclaimed play An Inspector Calls, was president of the theatre from 1932 until his death in 1984.

The theatre hosts numerous performances throughout the year, including its annual pantomime.

But the layout of the building, including a stepped access, means it is not fully accessible.

A post from the theatre thanked those who had shared their support for the works, as their "generosity is making a world of difference".

The post added: "Although the official campaign has ended, we're keeping it open for a while longer to accept additional donations.

"Along with the generous support from Bradford 2025, your incredible help means we're one step closer to making Bradford Playhouse a welcoming, accessible space for everyone."

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