WHY EVERY COMMUNITY NEEDS A LOCAL THEATRE
The Stage
Earlier today, as Theatre Peckham marked its 40th anniversary at the House of Commons, we launched a manifesto built on a simple belief: every young person deserves somewhere to go.
That belief comes from experience. Some years ago, a parent called to ask whether their son was at Theatre Peckham that evening. I checked: they were in class. Communication at home had become difficult, the parent explained. There were times when they did not know where their child was, and they were considering stopping the classes as a consequence.
I understood their concern. But for one evening each week, we knew exactly where that young person was. They arrived on time, put their phone down, committed to the group, built friendships and developed their skills. Theatre Peckham was one of the places where they felt connected. Trusted adults knew them. They belonged.
This is why the value of a local theatre cannot be measured by performances and audience figures alone. Theatre helps people find their voice, creating opportunities to learn from and connect with others.
