Strode Theatre

The building's structure is conventional, with a proscenium arch stage. The two tiers of seats are set at a steep gradient, with the option to just use the stalls for smaller performances. The orchestra pit is convertible to allow for different types of performances.[2]

Strode Theatre received financial support from Somerset County Council, Mendip District Council until funding to the arts ceased in 2011. it continues to receive a small grant Street Parish Council,[3] and a contribution from Strode College. The theatre is otherwise an entirely self-financing entity; mainly from Box office revenue and other subsidiary revenue, such as the Café-Bar, art exhibition sales and advertising.

The Friends of Strode Theatre are a separate charity, who raise funds through membership and fundraising events to support the theatre with grants for capital spending projects, such as technical developments and refurbishments.

Strode Theatre opened as a community theatre on 5 October 1963 with a performance by the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra.[4] It was funded by the Clark Foundation, set up by the Clarks brothers,[5] in response to plans to build a college nearby. It is named after the 17th-century politician and philanthropist, William Strode.

In 1994, the theatre was redecorated during works which included new carpets and heating system, costing £115,000 (equivalent to £243,341 in 2021).[6] In 1999 the theatre was expanded with a new foyer, bar and box office along with rehearsal space, meeting room and stage access, at a cost of £750,000 by the Steel, Coleman Davis partnership who received an award for the design.[7] The expansion was funded by the Arts Council England,[8] and it was at this point that it became part of Strode College, and began use as a cinema as well as associating with organisations such as Strode Opera.[9]

In 2016, the rehearsal space was converted into a multi-purpose studio space, with retractable seating for 64 people.

By 1984, the theatre was receiving 30,000 visitors each year.[2] Today it receives 60,000 visitors per year, and is an increasingly busy venue, serving communities throughout mid-Somerset, but also drawing audiences for some events from Bristol, Devon, Dorset, South Wales and Gloucestershire.