Lewisham’s Broadway Theatre in Catford expected to close for more than a year

By Grainne Cuffe, Local Democracy Reporter

The Broadway Theatre in Catford is expected to close for more than a year for works.

Lewisham council is planning a significant refurbishment which will see the theatre’s doors close this summer and reopen in the autumn of 2021.

The move means the theatre, pictured above, will be out of action for most of the year Lewisham is London’s Borough of Culture.

Lewisham won the award, from the Mayor of London, earlier this month – it aims to support the arts and comes with £1.35 million to stage a year-long programme of cultural events across the winning borough.

The closure, along with details of the revamp, will be put to the mayor and cabinet next month, but is expected to be approved.

Cllr André Bourne, cabinet member for culture, jobs and skills, said: “As London Borough of Culture 2021, the Broadway Theatre is one of the jewels in Lewisham’s cultural crown.

“It was built in 1932 and now needs significant refurbishment to ensure it can be part of our lasting cultural legacy in Lewisham.”

The Grade-II building on Rushey Green has two auditoriums, an 800-seat main theatre and an 80-seat studio theatre.

Its programme offers a range of theatre, music, comedy and family shows.