Community Theatre in Stratford to Temporarily Close as Operator Withdraws

The Stratford Play House, a community theatre located in Stratford, is scheduled for a temporary closure after its operating entity chose to cease its involvement. The venue will close its doors on 1 February 2025, a consequence of the decision made by The Stratford Play House Limited, the organization responsible for its management. Stratford Town Trust, the owner of the site, expressed its “disappointment” regarding this development. The trust indicated that a search for new operators would commence in the new year. Sara Aspley, the chief executive of the trust, confirmed that the venue’s temporary closure would coincide with the duration of this selection process. Rebecca Hallworth, the artistic director of the play house, shared a statement on social media, saying: “Quite simply we love The Play House and the events which it hosts. My colleagues and I have worked tirelessly over the past six years to build a successful venue and will greatly miss our involvement with it.” The operating company announced that all tickets purchased for performances scheduled beyond the closure date would be refunded “with immediate effect”. Ms. Aspley stated that both organizations had collaborated in an effort to reach an agreement that would permit the operator to continue. She emphasized the trust’s dedication, stating: “The town trust, as the landlord of the building, is completely committed to this building remaining a community resource – I cannot state that enough.” She further added, “We completely understand it is a Stratford landmark. It’s a much-loved venue. People have very fond memories of shows they’ve enjoyed, either watching or performing.” She also refuted any speculation of a disagreement between the two entities, asserting there was “no truth” to such rumours.