Kilburn’s Tricycle Theatre is edging closer to securing the funds it needs to complete a major refurbishment after Brent Council approved funding of £1million.
The iconic cultural venue on Kilburn High Road, has been at the heart of the borough’s vibrant arts scene since the 1980’s and has already raised £5.5 million towards its renovation. The council funding will help the theatre to increase capacity by 25 per cent from 232 to 292 seats, substantially improve accessibility and wheelchair access, enable the theatre to extend the range of activities they run and make improvements to its frontage.
With plans for improvement works on Kilburn High Road around the theatre also agreed, the 30 year partnership between Brent Council and the much loved theatre looks set to continue.
Councillor Shama Tatler, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Growth, Employment and Skills said: “The Tricycle Theatre has been a cultural hub for Kilburn, Brent and London since 1980. In recognition of the theatre’s economic, social and culture benefits the council has agreed to support its renovation with a grant of £1million.
“The Tricycle is one of London’s most respected and loved theatres and the council is delighted to have secured its future as we build on the strong and positive relationship we have built up over the decades.”
Indhu Rubasingham, Artistic Director of the Tricycle Theatre said:
“All of us at the Tricycle are beyond delighted by this game-changing contribution from Brent Council that puts us within reaching distance of achieving this hugely exciting and ambitious project. It is hard to put into words what this means, but ultimately it will allow us to accomplish our vision for the Tricycle and become a better version of ourselves. More facilities, much improved accessibility, increased capacity and a significantly enhanced experience for all who come through our door. We intend to make Brent proud of the Tricycle, a local theatre with an international presence that will be a beacon on Kilburn High Road.”
The works are due to be completed next year with the theatre set to re-open in spring 2018.
