As Taunton Brewhouse approaches its 50th anniversary in 2027, the theatre has been awarded £527,000 from Arts Council England towards the upgrade of the auditorium and studio lighting, much of which dates back to the opening of the theatre in 1977.
The project will replace the electrics in the main auditorium and studio theatre with modern, dynamic LED systems. These new lights are significantly more energy-efficient, reducing electricity consumption and lowering the Brewhouse’s environmental impact while also cutting long-term operating costs at a time when theatres are facing increasing financial pressures and rising overheads. 
Taunton Brewhouse Executive Director, Vickie Robbins, said: “We are absolutely thrilled and extremely grateful to Arts Council England to have our contribution to the cultural life of Somerset recognised like this. It is wonderful that this long-overdue upgrade will be achieved during our 50th anniversary year. We can now look forward to another 50 years, underpinned by sustainable, state of the art lighting systems.”
Beyond the environmental benefits, the upgrade will also enhance the audience experience, enabling Taunton Brewhouse to deliver more exciting and visually engaging shows.
The lighting upgrade is the first part of ‘Fit at 50’, a campaign to modernise the venue and make it fit to serve the people of Somerset well into the future. Plans include the replacement of roof surfaces, the upgrade of insulation and heating, the repair of the Brewers House building, and improvements to accessibility.
“In total, over the next five years, we are looking to raise a further £1m,” added Vickie.
Taunton Brewhouse still requires £20,000 in match funding to complete the first part of the project, adding to the £40,000 already earmarked. Patrons, visitors, and the local community are being invited to help reach this target.
“If a thousand people each contributed £20, we will achieve this goal,” said Vickie, “however, we truly appreciate any donation, big or small, as every gift helps us continue to improve our facilities for audiences and performers alike.”
Donations can be made by visiting https://www.tauntonbrewhouse.co.uk/support-us/fit-at-50/.
A programme of special events is currently being developed to mark the Brewhouse’s 50th anniversary, celebrating its history while looking ahead to the future. Further details about the anniversary programme will be announced later in the year.
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