The Joseph Rowntree Theatre was built by the Joseph Rowntree Village Trust in 1935. It seats around 450 and was designed to bring affordable entertainment to the citizens of York. It is still used as a performance venue by upwards of 30 local art groups and entertainers, and is staffed entirely by local volunteers. It is close to the site of the Rowntree chocolate factory and since this was taken over by Nestle UK they have owned (and supported) the theatre.
Last month ownership of this Art Deco beauty passed to York St John University. There is a covenant on the building which means it must continue to be used as a theatre, and as it has been recently refurbished I look forward to my next visit.
Thank goodness for the covenant!
ReplyDeleteExcellent thinking, that covenant idea!
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