Royal Shakespeare Company opens warm hub

The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) is opening a warm hub at its Stratford-upon-Avon studio theatre. 

The decision is a response to the rising cost of living which is causing some members of the local area to struggle to afford rising energy prices.

In a statement released on Twitter, the company said "we want to play our part in offering our local community a warm and welcoming space this winter”.

READ MORE:

• Theatre to become 'warmth bank' this winter
• ​​​​​​Energy prices could force closures, venues warn

The space is one of a number of warm hubs opening in Warwickshire "following on from the devastating effects of the pandemic and the unprecedented cost-of-living crisis," the RSC says.

The RSC's warm hub will be open in its Other Place foyer, every Tuesday from 2-5pm, and will offer free hot drinks and snacks, alongside arts and craft workshops for adults, after school activities for children and a creative play space.

Those visiting the hub are being urged to suggest ideas on how the RSC can continue to work with its local community.

Acting Artistic Director Erica Whyman said: "We know the cost of energy has risen drastically and so, working in collaboration with the other warm hubs available at different times in the area, we wanted to play our part in offering our local community a warm and welcoming space during the winter months.

"We know the foyer has always been a well-loved space with a cosy, friendly feel, and I’m very pleased it will be available to anyone who wants to make use of it on Tuesday afternoons."

The RSC's decision makes it the latest in a line of cultural venues to open their venue up to members of the public struggling with the cost-of-living. Last year, Theatre Royal Plymouth announced it would become a 'warmth bank' over the winter.