It is understandable that a multi-million pound project such as the new Kingston Theatre will command an increasing amount of publicity as the building nears completion.

However, it is worth reminding your readers that there is already vibrant and creative local theatre in this borough, coming together in increasing levels of collaboration at a local venue.

The Cornerhouse Community Arts Centre in Tolworth has just held its second annual meeting at which the trustees were able to report that the number of performances and events was up, attendances were up, and so were box office receipts.

Having established its own in-house company in April, the Cornerhouse also works co-operatively with a number of other theatrical groups operating in the borough, namely The Green Theatre, the Upstage Theatre Company, Stage Fright and Enzyme.

Cast members from all these companies have worked together at the venue on a range of recent productions including new work that has been written and directed by local people.

Additionally, the burgeoning Kingston Youth Theatre and the Golden Key Theatre Company, which works with young adults with mild learning difficulties, also use the venue as their home base.

While we look forward to the appearance of a state-of-the-art commercial theatre in Kingston, we must not overlook the wealth of talent that already exists at community level and which is making increasing use of a venue run entirely by volunteers with the wholehearted support of Kingston Council.

Phillip Cooper

Chair

Board of Trustees

The Cornerhouse

Douglas Road, Surbiton

Tel 020 8296 9012

July 18, 2002 15:30