It has been announced today in a record breaking public vote that Buxton Opera House has been voted the Most Welcoming Theatre in the East Midlands. Over 56,000 votes were cast by members of the public to choose their Most Welcoming Theatre for 2018.
Cassie Chadderton, Head of UK Theatre, said: ‘It is fantastic to see a record-breaking number of people all over the country casting votes in support of their local theatres this year. This award is a chance to recognise the importance of theatres as valuable cultural hubs, and the loyalty they can inspire by creating a fantastic audience experience – from friendly front-of-house service to engaging outreach projects and imaginative, entertaining programming.’
Buxton Opera House previously held the title for 2015 and 2016 and is thrilled that the wonderful work of the staff and volunteers have been recognised once again for all their hard work. New Chair Professor Judy Simons was particularly proud of staff, saying “What a great tribute to our marvellous box office and front of house team! Special thanks must go as well to our wonderful volunteers who take such pride in welcoming visitors to this beautiful theatre.”
Paul Kerryson, Chief Executive of Buxton Opera House also added “Buxton Opera House has always prided itself in providing the very best customer service experience, and this nomination is a tribute to our outstanding staff and volunteers who make every visit to our stunning Opera House a memorable occasion for our audiences and visiting artists. We also want to thank all our customers who took the time to vote for us and help make the theatre such a great venue”
The Grade II listed Buxton Opera House was built in 1903 and is considered one of the finest examples of Frank Matcham theatre design. Buxton Opera House presents around 400 performances each year, including dance, comedy, drama, musical concerts and pantomime as well as a Learning and Participation Programme. The theatre is also home to the prestigious Buxton Festival. The theatre has nearly 200 volunteers who help with a range of tasks including selling ice creams, serving drinks in the bar and showing people to their seats.
The full list of nominations for this year’s UK Theatre Awards can be viewed here.
For more information on the UK Theatre Awards and to book tickets to the ceremony visit the UK Theatre Awards website.
The UK’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award 2018 is sponsored by Theatre Tokens
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Notes to editors
- For more information about Buxton Opera House, please contact Helen Naylor Press and Content Officer , email: [email protected] or Tel: 01298 72050
- For more information about UK Theatre’s Most Welcoming Theatre Award , please contact Eva Mason Press Officer [email protected] / 0207 557 6729
UK Theatre is the UK’s leading theatre and performing arts membership organisation –promoting excellence, professional development, and campaigning to improve resilience and increase audiences across the sector. Part of the annual UK Theatre Awards, Most Welcoming Theatre is an opportunity for audiences across the country to celebrate their local theatre. All the regional and national winners will be invited to the Awards on Sunday 14 October at London’s Guildhall, where an overall winner will be announced.
The UK Theatre Awards are the only nationwide Awards to honour outstanding achievement in theatre throughout the United Kingdom. The Awards are supported by White Light, Q-Park, Theatre Tokens, John Good, Harbottle & Lewis and Integro in association with Chubb.