Hull's Performing Arts Hub Wins Share of £100K to Revamp Studio Space

A performance arts hub in Hull, which offers classes to approximately 650 students every week, has been awarded a grant to revamp one of its studio areas.

The Northern Academy of Performing Arts – NAPA – was among 21 theatres that received a portion of £100k as part of the distribution. Theatres Trust The trust, serving as the national advisory and advocacy organisation for theatres, announced the most recent beneficiaries of its Small Grants Programme alongside funding from The Linbury Trust.

NAPA received £5,000 to convert the biggest and most accessible interior area of the theater—the Backstage Studio—into an adaptable and inviting space. The funding covers repairing the initial timber sliding doors to allow simultaneous events, ensuring the walls and roof are weatherproof, as well as fitting new blackout shades to enhance this venue’s usability throughout all seasons.

• A man has been charged with attempted murder following an incident on Chanterlands Avenue.
• Firm hit with over £500,000 fine following employee’s fatal incident

Located within the Grade II-listed 1904 Hull School of Art, NAPA offers an extensive array of dance, acting, and musical theatre courses. The institution is currently undertaking a significant "Big Build" initiative aimed at conducting much-needed renovations.

Following the announcement regarding the granting of funds, NAPA expressed a “big thanks” to Theatres Trust for supporting the refurbishment of its Backstage Studio. Carl Wheatley, who leads NAPA as CEO, commented: "The financial support provided by Theatres Trust will allow us to develop an energetic environment inside our historic structure, thereby enhancing our ability to improve the lives of additional individuals in Hull and nearby regions via our performance art initiatives."

• Stay current with the newest headlines and prominent stories from Hull by signing up for our complimentary newsletter.

Joshua McTaggart, who serves as the CEO of Theatres Trust, stated: "We at Theatres Trust are thrilled to assist NAPA with a project that showcases how theatres are discovering methods to accommodate a wider array of performances and events, thereby attracting more visitors through their doors."

The Small Grants Programme supports non-profit theatres by financing smaller initiatives aimed at significantly enhancing their stability, viability, and access. It also encourages an expansion in audience demographics. Applications for the upcoming cycle are now being accepted, with submissions due by Friday, June 6, 2025.

For details on supporting the restoration of NAPA’s historic structure via their Big Build initiative, kindly visit. northernacademy.org.uk/the-big-build/