Cramped, Victorian Staircase Holding Back Popular Penzance Theatre – Can You Help Replace It?

The Acorn launches £20k crowdfunder for vital building upgrade

The Acorn Theatre in Penzance, a much-loved venue for live performance and community events in West Cornwall, has launched a crowdfunding campaign to raise £20,000 for a brand-new staircase.

Housed in a converted chapel dating back to 1889, The Acorn has been a cultural cornerstone of Penzance for years. From intimate gigs to packed-out standing nights, comedy shows, book launches and community workshops, the venue is known for offering something for everyone – and for championing local talent through its Get Involved programme.

But while the building oozes character, its original staircase – which leads to the downstairs theatre, bar, and toilets – is no longer fit for purpose.

“Our downstairs theatre, bar, and loos are currently only reachable via a staircase built for Victorian Sunday School kids — and let’s be honest, it shows. It’s a one-person-wide, ‘after you, no, after you’ kind of situation. Technically it’s still legal, but it’s about as ideal as a chocolate teapot,” the theatre says.

Why it matters

The theatre has already made the rest of the building accessible, with a lift and step-free access to main areas, but the old staircase is a daily challenge for both visitors and staff.

“Every penny you give will help make The Acorn a safer, friendlier, and even more brilliant space for everyone.”

Plans have been drawn up for a new, purpose-built staircase, and the team has been in conversation with audiences to make sure the upgrade delivers what’s needed. Now, they’re asking the public to help turn those plans into a reality.

“We’re on a mission to raise £20,000 to build a proper, purpose-built, grown-up staircase — one that doesn’t cause traffic jams or mild existential crises.”

Get involved

The team at The Acorn is calling on supporters to share their Crowdfunder page and help spread the word in any way they can – via social media, newsletters, or word of mouth.

“It is help like this that will enable our beloved theatre to continue to serve the Cornish community.”

To donate or find out more, visit https://bit.ly/3EGomfI.
For more about the venue, head to theacornpenzance.com.