The Vision

Our Vision


In 2011 the curtain will rise on a spectacular new Marlowe Theatre and an exciting new era for theatre and the arts in the south east will begin.

Built on its existing but extended site in the heart of Canterbury, the new Marlowe Theatre will give Kent a world-class theatre. Audiences will enjoy state-of-the-art facilities housed in a stunning contemporary riverside building.

Your larger theatre will bring you a programme of bigger and better shows including the largest musicals, the best plays, international quality opera and ballet and a programme of modern and classical music.

In an exciting new departure, the theatre will also be home to a second auditorium. The 150 seat Second Space will present new and innovative performances and arts events and give you the opportunity to take part in a range of creative workshops and activities.

The Second Space will be the home of the Marlowe Youth Theatre and will be used to support the development of emerging talent across the region. We’ll also be forming some exciting partnerships with local schools, colleges and universities.

 

Why a new theatre?

To provide Kent and Canterbury with a theatre that can facilitate the biggest and most prostegious shows as well as developing new talent.

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Community

The new Marlowe Theatre will be at the heart of the local community.  It will provide a place to see the best shows, develop creative talents and help regenerate Canterbury and the local economy.

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Nurturing new talent


The new Marlowe Theatre will provide aspiring theatre artists and performers with a place to devise, create and premiere their own work to the public.

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Main Auditorium


The main auditorium will increase available seats from 950 to 1,200, allowing the new Marlowe Theatre to bring you the best touring shows around.
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The Second Space

The Second Space will develop and showcase talent in dance, drama, comedy, live bands, visual arts,  literature, classical music, talks and digital arts.

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Regenerating Canterbury


The new Marlowe Theatre will help revitalise and regenerate Canterbury city centre, at the same time as drawing in an estimated £22.6million to the local economy and helping to secure hundreds of jobs.

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Gigs and Comedy


The Second Space will give the opportunity to for smaller live gigs and comedy, and therefore offer more entertainment for the community.

Creative economy


According to figures from the British Council, the creative industries are the fastest growing sector in the UK economy, employing 1.8 million people and generating £56billion per year which is almost 8% of the UK's gross added value.

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