Urgent Crowdfunder launched to secure future of nearly 250-year-old cultural landmark
Bridport, Dorset – One of Dorset’s most cherished cultural landmarks is facing a critical moment in its long history. The Lyric Theatre, a Grade II listed building that has served the people of Bridport for almost 250 years, has launched an urgent crowdfunding appeal to raise £100,000 for essential roof repairs before irreversible damage threatens the future of the venue.
The campaign, titled “Under this Roof!”, has already raised more than £51,000 from over 190 supporters, but with just weeks remaining, organisers are calling on the public, businesses, arts supporters and heritage lovers to help secure the final funds needed.
The theatre’s deteriorating roof has become a serious threat to the building. Years of water ingress have caused slates to slip, leaks to worsen and damage to the theatre’s historic listed ceiling. Temporary fixes, including protective sheeting, are no longer enough to prevent further deterioration. Without urgent intervention, damage to performance spaces, workshops, equipment and the building’s historic fabric will continue to escalate.
The appeal comes at a pivotal moment. The Lyric has already secured an extraordinary £170,000 award from Arts Council England’s Creative Foundation Fund to transform the venue with improved accessibility, artist studios, workshop spaces, restoration work and enhanced facilities for audiences and visiting creatives. However, that funding can only be unlocked if the theatre first secures the £100,000 required to make the building watertight.
For nearly two and a half centuries, the building has been woven into the fabric of Bridport life. Since its construction in 1777, it has served many purposes, including a chapel, Temperance Hall, Drill Hall, cinema, dance school and now a thriving community theatre and creative arts hub. Today it hosts performances, workshops, youth programmes, artist residencies and community events, while supporting local artists, emerging creatives and touring productions.
The campaign has already attracted support from acclaimed figures in the arts. Academy Award-winning actress Olivia Colman described the Lyric as “a truly special place at the heart of Bridport’s creative community” and warned that losing the venue would be “a terrible loss” for future generations.
The theatre is also home to nationally recognised creative organisations, including Stuff & Nonsense Theatre Company, and provides opportunities for learning and development through a network of more than 60 volunteer industry mentors who support aspiring performers, makers and theatre professionals.
Campaign organisers say the roof repairs represent far more than building maintenance.
“This is about protecting a place where creativity happens every day,” said the campaign team. “The Lyric is where young people discover their confidence, where artists create new work, where communities come together, and where nearly 250 years of history continues to inspire future generations. If we lose the roof, we risk losing so much more than a building.”
The works required include salvaging and reinstating historic slates, replacing damaged leadwork, rebuilding failing roof valleys and drainage systems, repairing decades of water damage and installing proper insulation and protective membranes.
Supporters are being urged to donate whatever they can and, crucially, to share the campaign widely. Every contribution brings the Lyric closer to securing its future and unlocking the additional investment needed to ensure this venue remains an essential part of the community for generations to come.
To donate and find out more, visit:
Under this Roof! Lyric Theatre Urgent Repair Crowdfunder
