IT WAS a pleasure for me and the Lady Mayoress to visit the Rose Theatre during their open day.
It was very interesting to see behind the scenes of the various areas needed for a theatre production – audio and lighting, props, costume, workshop – and to chat with the dedicated volunteers who work in those areas. I also witnessed the enthusiasm of the Youth Theatre members, who were rehearsing in the Studio Theatre.
Located in Broadwaters, the Rose comprises a modern, 181-seat, fully equipped theatre and a studio theatre with a capacity of 60.
The popular plays and other shows often attract sell-out audiences and they have an impressive calendar of past and upcoming shows.
Plays are typically put on for a six-day run, following a six-week rehearsal, set planning and preparation time. At the end of the play, the set comes down and the process starts all over.
I recommend taking a look at what’s upcoming and booking something of interest to you.
It is remarkable that the Rose, administered by The Nonentities charitable trust, has operated without much Arts Council or other funding – purely on surplus received on its business model. You cannot say that for many arts organisations.
Theatre in Kidderminster had died off in-between the wars, with cinema becoming more popular.
Kenneth Rose, a farmer from Heightington, and his group called The Nonentities, purchased the derelict Playhouse Theatre on Comberton Hill, refurbished it and it re-opened in 1946. Much local fundraising was required to achieve this.
Then followed a period of great success under Mr Rose’s chairmanship.
Unfortunately, the Playhouse was demolished in 1969 to make way for Kidderminster’s Ring Road, and after much legal argument, The Nonentities received a degree of compensation for their loss. They found a temporary home, in the shape of the St Oswald’s Parish Hall, a brick-built church hall in Broadwaters.
Eventually, in 1981, their well-invested compensation provided the funds needed to convert this hall to the modern facility we see today – named after Mr Rose who passed away in 1970.
The Rose Theatre is a major asset to the town, contributing to the cultural fabric and entertaining generations of people.
Volunteers have developed skills in the performing arts – on stage and backstage – and built friendships.
Maybe you could join them?
Coun Doug Hine
Mayor of Kidderminster
23rd Jun, 2026
