September 23, 2024
Official Opening of Mowden Hall’s Harrison Theatre
Mowden Hall School proudly celebrated the official opening of The Harrison Theatre on Thursday, 12th September. The newly renovated theatre, situated at the heart of the rural Stocksfield community, represents a significant milestone for the school and its surrounding area, following extensive upgrades funded by a £220,000 grant from The Harrison Foundation.
The Harrison Theatre will provide Mowden Hall’s students and the local community with a versatile, multi-functional space for artistic expression, skill development, and community engagement. The upgrades include the installation of flexible seating, cutting-edge lighting, and a comprehensive interior refurbishment, creating an inspiring venue for performances, workshops, and events.
The theatre will be a hub not only for students but for the wider community, promoting social mobility through creative opportunities. Local children will have access to activities aimed at building confidence, communication skills, and teamwork through drama, while also being given the chance to develop technical skills by working with the latest lighting and sound equipment.
Daniel Harrison, trustee of The Harrison Foundation, helped represent Sir David and Lady Sylvia and was accompanied by his wife Gemma and siblings Philip, Rachel and Siobhan. Daniel expressed his pride in supporting the school: “We are all delighted to see the completion of The Harrison Theatre and to know that it will play such a vital role in both the school and the community. With many family ties to Mowden Hall, including 11 of 13 of Sir David and Lady Sylvia’s grandchildren having attended the school so far, it’s a privilege to give back to a place that has meant so much to us. I look forward to watching students and future generations perform here, gaining confidence and skills that will serve them throughout life.”
Daniel further highlighted the Foundation’s commitment to social mobility: “This project is about giving as many young people as possible the opportunity to thrive. Creative arts are a powerful tool for building confidence, and through this investment, we hope to support children in our local communities in reaching their full potential.”
Kate Martin, Headteacher of Mowden Hall School, also shared her excitement: “The Harrison Theatre will revolutionise how we deliver the Arts at Mowden Hall. It has always been central to the school’s identity, and its transformation marks a new chapter for us. We are incredibly grateful to The Harrison Foundation and other donors for making this vision a reality. The theatre will be a space where our students can build confidence, creativity, and teamwork, while also serving as a focal point for collaboration with our local community.”
The official opening of The Harrison Theatre is a major milestone in the school’s ongoing commitment to enhancing its facilities and fostering a strong sense of community. It will provide a platform for students to showcase their talents and for the local community to come together through the arts.
Highlights of the opening can be found here: https://youtu.be/uwlSJeTuPo8