We absolutely love our characterful theatre here in the heart of Paignton but, like any Victorian building, there is a wish list for future improvements.
For some months now we have been working with Torbay Council (the building’s owner) and have now submitted a capital funding application to Arts Council England that, if successful, will kick-start some major improvements at the theatre. Managed by a not-for-profit Community Interest Company (Jazz Hands CIC), the Palace team are seeking to transform the venue into a vibrant and accessible cultural hub.
Since taking over management in 2018, Jazz Hands has successfully navigated challenges, including the impacts of the Covid pandemic. In 2024 it achieved the remarkable milestone of selling over 40,000 tickets.
Now Jazz Hand’s Director, Maureen McAllister, is looking to the future: “We have already enjoyed success with more events, bigger audiences, tremendous loyalty, and many creative and innovative approaches to running this gem of a venue in the heart of Paignton. We are now looking to future, and need investment and development firmly focused on the years and decades to come.”
The funding application focuses on Phase One of the transformation, primarily targeting the Stage Left multi-use event space, which can accommodate up to 120 people. The planned enhancements include:
• A new entrance foyer with full disabled access, replacing the current limited access that relies on portable ramps and lacks a disabled restroom.
• Critical roof repairs to ensure the safety and longevity of the venue.
• Enhanced technical facilities to support a broader range of cultural activities, such as workshops, exhibitions, and performances, including theatre-in-the-round.
• Sustainability measures aimed at improving operational efficiency.
• Accessible creative spaces to support local cultural organizations and emerging talent, featuring rehearsal spaces, meeting rooms, and creative studios.
Later Phases will enhance workshop, rehearsal and activity spaces in the main theatre public areas. Maureen McAllister underlined the theatre’s long term commitment to the local community: “Whether the bid is successful or not, the Palace Theatre is on a mission to become Torbay’s go-to cultural hotspot with creativity centre stage. This is a real opportunity to transform this historic venue into a vibrant gathering place where everyone can enjoy and participate in the arts.”
She added, “We anticipate knowing the outcome of our funding application in March 2026, and we are hopeful that this investment will significantly enhance our offerings and community engagement.”
Jazz Hands CIC invites the community to support this initiative as it strives to create a dynamic environment that fosters creativity, inclusivity, and engagement in the arts. The Palace Theatre is dedicated to serving as a cultural beacon in Torbay, offering a diverse range of performances and activities that cater to all members of the community.
