Raise the roof: Wigan Little Theatre restoration appeal launched

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One of Wigan’s most treasured landmarks is in desperate need of some TLC.

An appeal has been launched to “Raise the Roof” at the town’s famous Little Theatre as it faces several major structural issues at once.

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An initial target of £30,000 has been set for the 131-year-old premises’ restoration, although bosses are under no illusion that the bill could rise as further problems are discovered.

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Wigan Little Theatre shroudedin scaffoldingWigan Little Theatre shroudedin scaffolding
Wigan Little Theatre shroudedin scaffolding

For now though the aim is to raise money to cover the cost of recent roof repairs – paid for out of WLT’s emergency fund which now needs refilling – plus an upgrade to the theatre’s electrics and the refurbishment of its well-trodden stage.

The company was launched in 1943 by a small group of theatre enthusiasts who at first performed ar St Michael’s hall, Swinley, until they took the keys of derelict premises on School Lane in 1947, which have been a key part of Wigan’s entertainment scene and heritage ever since.

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As a charitable, voluntary organisation, the cost of ensuring its survival is usually covered only by tickets sales and donations, but the theatre is now appealing to the wider public to ensure it can keep performing its hugely popular productions.

The members of WLT have a lot to be proud of, it holds the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service and hosted a royal visit in 2019 by the then Prince of Wales, now King Charles.

A workman carrying out repairsA workman carrying out repairs
A workman carrying out repairs

They are proud to declare that if ever there was a reason to exist and continue to inspire and entertain, it’s the fact that it is the where Sir Ian McKellen saw his first Shakespeare in the ’50s and the catalyst for his most illustrious career.

Cath Finch, a lifelong member, is leading the campaign and can be contacted at [email protected]

She said: “WLT was built in 1893 as a Salvation Army Citadel, later becoming a cinema and in 1947 became a project for founder members to bring to life and fulfil their ambition of providing quality entertainment in the borough.

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"We want to continue to do the same and preserve our beautiful heritage building well into the future.”

Cath FinchCath Finch
Cath Finch

There are several ways to help including clicking to donate when booking online.

A Just Giving page has also been set up (UK taxpayers are urged to click to claim Gift Aid which adds 25 per cent to the donation) or folk can pay directly into WLT’s bank account s/c 40-46-32 a/c 50868264 ref: Roof. Alternatively ask for an envelope in person at the theatre.

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There is also an opportunity for businesses to support the appeal by booking an evening for 10 guests, which includes tickets, pre-show and interval hospitality with an advert in the programme and an acknowledgement of support on a list of donations over £500 to be introduced and displayed.

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