Phyllis Maud Performance Space

The Phyllis Maud Performance Space is a Grade II listed former public toilet in Newport, South Wales.[1]

Phyllis Maud Performance Space
The Phyllis Maud Performance Space in April 2019
AddressAlexandra Road
Newport
Wales
Coordinates51.563837°N 2.988139°W / 51.563837; -2.988139
OwnerJanet Martin
DesignationGrade II listed
TypeNon-profit producing theatre
Capacity25–35
Construction
Opened2019 (2019)
Rebuilt2018
Years active2019 – present

History

The building ceased to operate as a public convenience in 2006.[2] In September 2017, the former public toilet on Alexandra Road was sold at auction for £31,500 to a bidder who planned to turn the building into a cafe.[3] However, the successful bidder then pulled out, and Janet Martin subsequently purchased the building from the council for £15,000.[4][5]

In June 2018 the local council approved plans to convert the space into a 25-seat theatre, which they considered would be a positive addition to an area "in need of both physical and social regeneration". Janet Martin decided to name the venue after her late aunt.[6]

Owner Janet Martin is also responsible for other arts venues including the Robbins Lane Studios and Barnabas Arts House.[2] The venue opened in April 2019.[7] The opening was attended by around 100 people.[8]

References
  1. Cadw. "Public Conveniences (Grade II) (18177)". National Historic Assets of Wales. Retrieved 3 September 2023.
  2. "Public toilet could become theatre". Insider Media Ltd. Retrieved 2019-05-18.
  3. "New owner derelict toilet block in Pill wants to turn it into a coffee shop". South Wales Argus. Retrieved 2019-05-18.
  4. "Listed toilet block spectacularly transformed into performance space after £40k revamp". South Wales Argus. Retrieved 2019-05-18.
  5. "Art Deco style toilet block going to auction with no chain". Out News. 17 January 2020. Retrieved 14 October 2020.
  6. "Theatre plan for toilet approved". Insider Media Ltd. Retrieved 2019-05-18.
  7. "Former city 'eyesore' transformed into theatre will soon be opening". South Wales Argus. Retrieved 2019-05-18.
  8. "Crowds descend for unveiling of new theatre converted from derelict toilet block". South Wales Argus. Retrieved 2019-05-18.
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