Theatre at Risk, Derby Hippodrome, Receives support from Theatres Trust to help evidence viability

A grant of £8,750 has been awarded to the Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust to cover work that will help to evidence the future viability of the building as a live music venue.

Derby Hippodrome is a rare survival from an early stage in the crossover period when buildings were being constructed for both live theatre and cinema. The building was substantially damaged in 2008 when repair works by the then-owner resulted in the partial demolition of the auditorium.

This grant will allow us to commission conservation architects to undertake a condition survey and develop RIBA Stage 1 /2 design proposals to show how the building can be developed in a way that is sensitive to its historic character and fabric.

Derby Hippodrome is one of 10 theatres to receive funding through the third round of the Resilient Theatres: Resilient Communities grants programme, run by Theatres Trust, the national advisory body for theatres. The programme aims to help progress the restoration, reopening or revitalising At Risk theatres by funding expert support.

Lucy Godfrey, Executive Officer of DHBT says, "This is an important step forward for us and our aim to see the building restored. The vision for the building is that it becomes a revitalised music and arts venue, that breathes new life into an abandoned building. Conservation architects will undertake a condition survey and demonstrate how the building can be developed with a 'minimal intervention' approach."

Joshua McTaggart, CEO of Theatres Trust says, “All the theatres on our Theatres at Risk Register are special buildings that have real potential to bring joy and opportunities to their communities. Theatres Trust is delighted to support Derby Hippodrome with this project that will help it move a step closer to its ultimate goal.”

The other theatres to receive funding in this round are Amulet Theatre, Shepton Mallet; The Groundlings Theatre, Portsmouth; Hulme Hippodrome, Manchester; Leith Theatre; Netherton Arts Centre, Dudley; Ramsbottom Coop Hall and Spilsby Sessions House. The theatres are all on the Theatres at Risk Register 2025, published by Theatres Trust in January, which highlights and supports theatres across the country that are at risk of closure or demolition, and which have architectural and community merit.

Resilient Theatres: Resilient Communities programme is funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, the Pilgrim Trust and Swire Charitable Trust.