Q: What is the position with the purchase?
A: The Save The Watermill appeal has raised the funds needed for the Board of Directors of The Watermill Theatre to purchase the premises.
Q: So is the theatre saved?
A: The theatre is saved from closure, but we still
need to raise the funds needed to complete
the building work and secure the theatre’s future.
Q: Why do you need to do the building work?
A: Over the years the theatre’s work has grown enormously, but the space for offices, meetings, rehearsal and for our audiences has not kept up with that growth. We urgently need to create more space for our audiences in the restaurant and bar area before and after the performances and during the intervals, and better working conditions for our staff and visiting actors and directors.
Q: When do you want to do this building work?
A: The building work has started and will continue through most of 2008. The building work will not affect the theatre’s programme of productions – the shows will continue throughout that period.
Q: How much do you still need to raise?
A: We need to raise a further £50,000 to successfully conclude the appeal.
Q: How can you start the building work without having raised the money?
A: Money has already been raised for the building work. Greenham Common Trust has already given £572,000 specifically for the extension of the offices. The Dr Mortimer and Theresa Sackler Foundation and the Foundation for Sport and the Arts have also pledged grants specifically towards the building work. This means that we can embark on the building as planned.
Q: What about the Lottery?
A: We have received £200,000 Arts Council Lottery funding - the largest ever granted to an arts organization in Berkshire.
Q: Can I organise my own fundraising event?
A: Yes, you can! In fact, many of our supporters are already organising their own fundraising events ranging from a bridge day, young people performing in their school and a jumble sale to a garden party. This is a fantastic way to extend the very limited resources of the theatre in raising money from a wide pool of people.
If you plan to organize your own event we will be happy to supply leaflets and promotional material so do contact us on 01635 570915 or by e-mail to
While we are not able to assist in the organization of these events, simply because of time pressures, we will happily attend your event if appropriate and give you all the support we can in terms of information and encouragement.
For further information about the appeal please contact: