A NEW lease of life has been granted to a unique town centre landmark, thanks to Malvern Hills College.

The future of the Theatre of Small Convenience, in Edith Walk, was shrouded in uncertainty after its founder, Dennis Neale, announced his retirement.

The college announced today (Friday) that it has agreed with Malvern Hills District Council to take over the lease of the world-famous little theatre.

And the much-loved performance space will be officially re-open at 4pm on Monday, May 21, courtesy of Malvern mayor, Cynthia Palmer.

Members of the public are invited to join a procession of college students and staff, which will start in the grounds of the library in Graham Road at 3.30pm. Participants are encouraged to dress up for the occasion in fancy dress, hats and masks.

Students at the college, well-known for its arts-based courses, will be using the eccentric venue as an exhibition and performance space to support their course work. The college is also planning new courses in production and performance arts from September 2018.

The Theatre of Small Convenience was founded by Mr Neale in 1999 as a venue for drama, puppetry, poetry, storytelling and music. Its name comes from the building’s original purpose, a Victorian gentleman’s public convenience.

In 2002, it entered the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s smallest theatre, and today seats 12 people within its quirky interior.

Caroline Park, head of art at the college, said: “The college is thrilled to be able to take on the tenancy of this very special theatre, because we love what Dennis has created.

"We are looking forward to building on the success of this unique attraction and developing his ideas of alternative community theatre, as well as using the space for exhibitions and performance.”

Malvern Hills District Council owns the building and were keen to ensure it continued to be open to the public after Mr Neale announced his retirement..

Cllr James O’Donnell said: “The Theatre of Small Convenience is one of Malvern’s gems and I’m delighted we’ve been able to secure a deal that will not only ensure it continues to be used as a performance space but will remain accessible to the public. I’m excited to see what the college has planned for the future of this unique attraction.”