Save Streatham Hill Theatre from change of use to a church

Ruach City Church have written to local organisations regarding future community use of the theatre auditorium.

“The below has been proposed in terms of pricing, however Bishop has advised that 2026 should be made free of charge for all community events and this will be funded by the generous donation of Ruach City Church members to cover the operational costs of running the building during these events, which will cost approx. £15,000 – £30,000 per year or more. The events will be charged from 2027 as explained below. Please do let me know if you require further information.

Pricing
To generate demand and awareness an initial 9-month period of ‘Ticket Sharing’ is being implemented for community groups, ensuring revenue is shared between the event organisers and Ruach, requiring minimal financial commitment from community groups, which is intended to promote the availability of the building to Community Groups. Following this initial ‘Ticket Sharing’ period, a 35% discount to open market hire rates are proposed with day rates of £3,735 and half day rates are £1,868, to ensure the ongoing financial viability of the Community Use at the Property.“

There is now a Hire Form at Ruach’s website.

This raises a number of questions over detail, which Streatham Arts Community will take up with Ruach.

Brixton Chamber Orchestra will stage a concert at the theatre on 19th December at 7pm as part of their 2025 Christmas Estates Tour, staging 11 free gigs across Lambeth from Friday 12th to Sunday 22nd December.

“We’re back with a seasonal setlist packed with something for everyone – from classical and grime to disco, pop, jazz, and, of course, your festive favourites. 

We’re thrilled to be taking the Christmas Estates Tour across Lambeth, and this year we will play at Streatham Hill Theatre, a magnificent space first opened in the 1920s as one of London’s largest and most revered venues outside of the West End.

Join us as we celebrate the season with music and plenty of Christmas cheer—right on your doorstep.”

For more information see the Brixton Chamber Orchestra website.