The Victoria Hall Performing Arts Association

The Victoria Hall Performing Arts Association is a volunteer‑led charity that runs Victoria Hall Theatre in Old Harlow, keeping live performance accessible for the community. Established in 1996, we are dedicated to keeping live performance accessible for everyone in our community. We provide a creative home for amateur and professional groups alike and operate entirely on a not-for-profit basis.

What will the Kao SEED Fund support?

The funding will help expand the annual community-led Christmas production at Victoria Hall Theatre, a much-loved event that unites around 80 local volunteers aged 12-80 in creating, performing and managing a professional-quality show. The performance of Alice in Wonderland will offer hands-on opportunities in set building, lighting, costume design and stage management, guided by experienced mentors. Over three months of rehearsals and performances, participants will gain creative and practical skills, build confidence and strengthen community connections, ensuring this cherished local tradition continues to empower and inspire Harlow residents.

Who is the project helping support?

The project will directly involve around 80 volunteers from across Harlow, including young people (11+), families, retirees and community members from diverse backgrounds. Participants gain creative, technical and teamwork experience that builds confidence, communication skills and employability. More than 1,200 audience members are expected to attend, benefiting from accessible, local theatre that fosters connection and pride in place.

Local schools, suppliers and small businesses also benefit through partnerships, participation and charity nights supporting organisations such as Streets2Homes, Pact for Autism, ASL and St Clare’s Hospice.

Impact of the project

The project aims to strengthen community spirit, reduce isolation and keep high‑quality theatre accessible during a period of rising living costs and pressure on arts venues. Success will be seen in increased volunteer participation, especially among young and first‑time performers, and in stronger intergenerational collaboration. Impact will be monitored through volunteer and audience numbers, ticket sales, surveys, interviews, reflections, photos and videos documenting the process. Audience feedback, skills gained, confidence growth and funds raised for local charities will demonstrate how the production brings Harlow’s community together.

Find out more:

https://www.victoriahalltheatre.co.uk/
https://www.facebook.com/thevictoriahalltheatre
https://www.instagram.com/vickyhallharlow