News / Arts
New theatre space The Room Above opens doors
Bristol University graduates Olivia Marcus and Sam Patching have just opened the doors to their new theatre space, The Room Above.
The space above the White Bear on St Michael’s Hill was the original home to the Wardrobe Theatre, but since their relocation in December 2015 to the Old Market Assembly, it has only been used occasionally as a function room.
Olivia and Sam, who are best friends and recent drama graduates, saw potential in the empty space and with the help of the White Bear they have now refurbished it and are hosting a launch party for its opening on November 17 at 7pm.
is needed now More than ever
“We wanted to rejuvenate it and bring it back to life,” says Olivia,
“We’ve given it a slightly grander feel. We want to keep the domesticity and intimacy of it, but we’ve given it a new lick of paint, a new stage, lighting and sound.”
Their aim is to create a space which is accessible, communal, and inexpensive, where the Bristol community can come together for a variety of different shows.
Olivia explains that she and Sam wanted to create The Room Above because Bristol is such a cultural hub.
“I like to say that this has been an act of Bristol kindness. I’m from London and I would never have been able to walk into a venue with my best friend and start something up there.”
The new performance space has already hosted a few shows, such as Bristol University’s English literature event Lit Live and improv, sketch comedy, and stand-up show Every Other Sunday. For the future, their plans are to host all kinds of entertainment, including whole venue events with the pub below.
Their hope is that it will prove to be a constantly evolving, exciting venue that both amateur actors and professionals will be able to enjoy.
Read more: Help get Bristol station SWU.FM back on air