‘Brighter and greener future’ as theatre secures £107k funding boost for major upgrade
A Lincolnshire theatre is set for a brighter and greener future after securing more than £107,000 for a major lighting upgrade.
The Terry O’Toole Theatre in North Hykeham has been awarded £107,777 from Arts Council England’s Creative Foundations Fund following a successful bid by North Kesteven District Council.
Funding will be used to replace the venue’s ageing lighting system with modern energy-efficient LED equipment, helping to cut costs, reduce carbon emissions and improve productions.
The Moor Lane theatre, which opened in 2002 and is operated by GLL, will also receive match funding from both North Kesteven District Council and GLL.
Work is due to take place in August 2026, with completion expected the following month.
Council leaders say the new system will dramatically reduce annual energy use from around 10,700kWh to 1,200kWh, while also giving performers and visiting productions greater creative flexibility.
Councillor Wright, Leader of North Kesteven District Council, said: “Both the Council and the Theatre value the creative potential in our district and strive to provide our communities with more opportunities to enjoy and celebrate culture of every kind.
“It is brilliant that the theatre will benefit from this funding which will help reduce energy consumption and allow their productions to be more creative in their lighting design.
“This project also demonstrates the Council’s commitment to reducing carbon emissions as outlined in our Climate Response Strategy.”
Al Duncombe, Theatre Officer and Programmer at the Terry O’Toole Theatre, welcomed the announcement.
He said: “As a small venue at the heart of our community, this is fantastic news for the Terry O’Toole Theatre.
“The award will enable us to replace outdated theatre lighting, increase energy efficiency and enhance our creative offer to the many local and regional performers who visit us.”
The funding forms part of a wider national package announced by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport, which will see almost £130 million shared between theatres, museums and libraries across the country.
Liz Johnson, Midlands Area Director at Arts Council England, said: “We’re pleased to award £107,777 to the Terry O’Toole Theatre so that they can introduce energy-efficient lighting.
“As well as reducing energy usage and maintenance costs, the upgrades will mean they can continue to deliver high-quality creative work and remain a vibrant, sustainable cultural hub for the rural communities of North Kesteven and beyond.”