Arts at the heart of Basildon

Be part of it

A combination of traditional horseshoe-shaped seating and a huge stage brings an audience of 576 right into the action in the main Towngate Theatre auditorium.

The Mirren Studio is intimate and inviting, a perfect space for performances that thrive on audience participation. Both spaces are built around remarkable sound and lighting systems, supported by a brilliant Technical, Production and Front of House team.

Arts for all

The Towngate foyer is an open showcase for community arts and exhibitions, with the Towngate Café Bar a perfect central venue to meet and make new friends.

Our Participation Workshops and family friendly productions offer a fun, affordable, interactive way for your kids to actively experience the wonder of theatre. Our annual award-winning pantomimes feature talented local youngsters in our Young Ensemble, giving them a priceless opportunity to experience professional training in performance art and stage craft.

It doesn’t just stop at the show

Many of our educational/school performances feature a pre- or post- show Question and Answer session, giving you a chance to find out first-hand what it takes to produce a play or to tread the boards under the glare of the lights.

Workshops run by our Participation Leader are a fantastic way to get a grip on the world of theatre form every perspective, on the stage and behind the scenes, at very affordable rates.

You can bring your own skills to the Towngate by joining the Friends of Towngate Theatre, a friendly and highly active team who help make sure the Towngate can grow as the cultural beating heart of Basildon.

The arts at the heart of business

Towngate is a fantastic, inspirational environment. Bring your team to theatre workshops, or organise your own event in one of our well equipped, modern and affordable hire spaces, with full catering on hand.

Get in touch

So what are you waiting for? Talk to us about bringing your production to the Towngate, taking part in a workshop, joining the Towngate Youth Theatre – we’re here and we’re listening!