Guildford’s Yvonne Arnaud Theatre Reopens After Major Renovation

The Yvonne Arnaud Theatre in Guildford has officially reopened following an extensive refurbishment aimed at enhancing accessibility and expanding educational programs. The renovation, which began 18 months ago and cost £2 million, was made possible through funding from Your Fund Surrey’s Large Community Project.

This significant upgrade includes a range of improvements to the theatre’s front-of-house and public areas. Notable features include newly installed bathrooms, a modern central heating system, a lift providing access to all floors, and the addition of 50 flat access seats for the audience. The theatre now also boasts a fully accessible toilet, ensuring a more inclusive environment for all visitors.

Joanna Read, Director of the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, emphasized the project’s goal of making the building more open to the public. “We had all these spaces that we felt weren’t being used effectively, and we really wanted to increase daytime use,” she explained. The renovation allows for a more flexible use of space, which is essential for future programming.

Among the new facilities is the “River Room,” designated for educational outreach initiatives. Programs such as “Little Notes,” “Pop-up-play,” and “Young Company” are set to launch in the coming months, reflecting the theatre’s commitment to engaging with the community.

“Arts are like health or education – it should be an essential part of your life,” Read stated. She highlighted the theatre’s responsibility to ensure it remains a vibrant cultural hub for the long term. The renovation has been described as a way to restore the building to its former glory, positioning it as “the jewel of the crown of Surrey.”

Visitors have responded positively to the renovations, praising the modernized aesthetic of the theatre, which retains elements of its original 1960s style. One attendee remarked, “It’s amazing – so fresh, clean, and everything looks lovely and new. I can also see that it is much more user-friendly.”

The redesign received recognition when it won a Guildford Design Award in October, specifically in the Regeneration Project category. Public input played a crucial role in shaping the renovation, with feedback gathered through audience comments and questionnaires. Read noted, “We try to look at it as a 360 conversation with our audience and potential audience.”

Despite ongoing construction during the renovation period, the theatre remained open, a decision that proved financially necessary but challenging for maintaining audience attendance. Many local residents, who feel a strong sense of ownership over the grade two listed heritage building, continued their support throughout the renovations.

Looking ahead, the theatre anticipates a significant increase in audience engagement and community outreach over the next 1-2 years. Future improvements to backstage and dressing-room facilities are also planned, although specific details have yet to be confirmed.

Established in 1965, the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre celebrated its 60th anniversary in September 2023 with a concert attended by notable figures, including the Duke of Edinburgh. The theatre’s commitment to accessibility and community involvement suggests a promising future as it re-establishes its role in the cultural landscape of Guildford.