The Tom Thumb Theatre in Margate is under new management with former Morgan’s boss Allyson Morgan (Jones) taking the reins.
The former Victorian coach house, which is one of the UK’s smallest theatres, had been run by couple Sara and Alex Ratcliffe from 2017 but the duo have now handed the baton to Allyson who previously headed up Morgan’s Vintage Dance Hall and Coffee Lounge on Margate seafront from 2013-2017.
Announcing the takeover, Allyson said: “I am beyond proud to say I am officially the new custodian of The Tom Thumb Theatre.
“I’ve always wanted to create a space for the arts, somewhere welcoming to all. So when the opportunity to purchase this building arose, I embarked on a mission to make this a possibility.
“So far, it has been a project of planning, budgeting, and presenting information to convince lenders that Tom Thumb Theatre could be a ‘going concern’. This project is far from over, with a short lease and first refusal to purchase the building in this time frame, it’s a race against the clock.
“The mission now is to make the space busy, as quickly as possible and persuade the local community to support the future of the Tom Thumb Theatre.
“I personally believe theatre can be a chance to express life, and also be an escapism for people. My intention for this theatre is to invite artists who evoke imaginations, demonstrate creativity, show inclusiveness, and perhaps most importantly, incite joy and a sense of community.”
Allyson says an open day and new programme of events, plus a new website, will be coming shortly,
However, she is wasting no time with keys being collected on May 14 and her first event following on May 16 with Stillman/Carpio/Holst (fka Bog Bodies). The trio specialise in performance, installation, and recording. Find the event details and ticket link here
Allyson said: “I am under no illusion of the challenge and responsibility I’m undertaking with this important Margate landmark and I aim to continue the great work of my predecessors. I am excited to meet everyone and committed to providing a vibrant programme reflecting the local community.”
Plans include installing ramps and opening the downstairs kiosk bar.
The former coach house building was transformed into one of the smallest theatres in the world in 1984. The Tom Thumb is a striking mix of Japanese and Alpine Architecture with a capacity of around 60.
Tom Thumb Theatre contact is: [email protected]
i thought that fell down years ago ?
I wish you and your team all the very best Allyson. Great to hear that the Tom Thumb Theatre will be back in action soon.
It was rarely used as a theatre for plays.
I wish her every success. I will most certainly visit