Tobacco Factory Theatres Future Looks Bright With Free 999 Year Lease

June 29, 2022 Chopsy Baby

A South Bristol theatre has seen its future secured after being granted a free 999 year lease, allowing it to continue producing theatre and bring touring productions into the city.

Tobacco Factory Theatres in Southville, has faced a desperately uncertain time having had to close its doors during the Covid-19 pandemic. The new long-term lease of the whole first floor of the Tobacco Factory building where it’s based, will bring long-term stability.

George Ferguson bought the iconic building back in 1993, when it had been left abandoned, aiming to save it from demolition. He wanted to experiment with a mix of uses with theatre at its heart. Independent charity Tobacco Factory Arts Trust, was that experiment, which has run from the building since 2005.

“It has always been my intention that the Tobacco Factory should benefit the wider South Bristol community long after I have gone,” Owner of Tobacco Factory, George Ferguson said.

“I felt that the time has come to start that process. It has been a fascinating experiment in local regeneration and I hope the Tobacco Factory Arts Trust continues to do great things for the next 999 years!”

Tobacco Factory Theatres has since become one of the most important regional producing theatres, putting Bristol on the map for home grown original theatre alongside a dynamic season of shows and events each year.

From its early space surrounded by an audience in wobbly church pews, it now has proper seating, air con and also includes a second 84 seated space – The Spielman Theatre.

Chair of Tobacco Factory Theatres, Sarah Smith called the lease a ‘very generous gift’ and that it’s an ‘incredibly positive step for the theatre as it looks ahead to its next 20 years.’

Artistic Director Mike Tweddle and Executive Director David Dewhurst said: “This hugely generous gift from George Ferguson empowers us as we celebrate two decades of ambitious growth and experimentation, and share a vision for the decades ahead. We are more motivated than ever to continue creating extraordinary creative adventures for the people of Bristol and beyond.”

For more information about Tobacco Factory Theatres, visit: www.tobaccofactorytheatres.com

Image Left to Right: George Ferguson, Mike Tweddle, Sarah Smith, David Dewhurst
Photo Credit: Craig Fuller