FIRST, the very good news: we have capital funds to transform the Dorchester Corn Exchange, with new seats, new lights, new sound and projection equipment - and a new community space in the foyer area too.
AND there are funds to transform the Thomas Hardye School theatre into a high-quality 400 seat venue which will be used for both public performances and school events.
ALSO, we are taking over the day-to-day running of the whole Corn Exchange building. When we reopen later this year, as well as welcoming back many existing users, we will offer space and support for groups who want to get started, and to existing groups who want to grow. We will offer new opportunities to local artists and present some major town-wide community projects to inspire and give work to local creative people at all levels.
BUT we need your support to bridge a gap in our income over the coming months – a gap created by lockdowns, ongoing Covid-19 restrictions, our building being closed for works, and a reduction in our local authority funding.
SO, we need you to help us get to this bright future for the arts in Dorchester! We look forward to welcoming you to a thriving, lively, welcoming Corn Exchange in just a few months’ time! Please do donate!