Orange Tree Theatre has launched a public fundraising campaign for its capital development project, OT: Open to Everyone, as it seeks to raise the final £350,000 of a £4.5 million target.
The Richmond venue has already secured £4.1 million, including a £75,000 grant from the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames’ Community Fund.
Designed by architects Allies and Morrison, the redevelopment will transform front of house and backstage areas to improve accessibility, sustainability and the experience for audiences, creatives and performers.
The auditorium itself will remain unchanged, preserving the intimacy of the theatre’s in-the-round space.
Tom Littler, Artistic Director of Orange Tree Theatre, said: “2026 is a big year for the Orange Tree as we raise the final funds needed for our capital project, OT: Open to Everyone, and get to work on transforming our front of house areas and the OT’s accessibility. We are so grateful to the London Borough of Richmond Upon Thames’ Community Fund for supporting our campaign, alongside the huge generosity of our audiences and supporters. We have been blown away by the extraordinary response our fundraising appeal has had so far; thank you, so much, to everyone who has helped us get to this point – through donations, through spreading the word, through cheering us on. And thank you in advance to everyone who will help us reach our final target.”
Executive Director Julie Weston added: “Our current fundraising stands at 92% of our £4.5 million goal, and with building work set to commence in March, we are so close to realising our vision of being a truly accessible theatre. We are delighted to launch our final fundraising push, helping us become a Theatre for Everyone.”
Councillor John Coombs said: “This project is about more than just bricks and mortar. It’s about strengthening the fabric of our community. The theatre already offers valuable outreach work and supports local schools and organisations. With a more accessible and flexible building, it will be able to do even more.”
Actor Niamh Cusack, who will lead an upcoming revival of Vincent in Brixton at the venue, said: “At the Orange Tree, something magical happens when the lights go down. In their intimate in-the-round theatre, the audience is part of the story, so close they can feel every word, every breath, every silence. They bring bold new voices and unforgotten classics to life, taking risks and telling stories that challenge, delight and stay with you. They’re a small space, but think big. And with your support, they’ll keep making unforgettable theatre for everyone… Help them keep the magic alive.”
Oliver Ford Davies, who appeared in the theatre’s 2024 production of Twelfth Night, said: “The Orange Tree Theatre has always held a special place in my heart, having been one of the founding company members when it started above the pub. The theatre’s charm lies in its unique intimacy and the connection it fosters between audience and actors. This front-of-house redevelopment project will preserve that essence while making the OT accessible to everyone in our community, both onstage and off. I’m thrilled to see the theatre take this step towards a future where even more people can share in its warmth and creativity.”
Listings and ticket information can be found here.
