APRIL NEWSLETTER

To our valued friends and supporters, we’re excited to share this month’s updates with you, including exciting news about our in-house community production of Priscilla and a line-up of upcoming free events you won’t want to miss. 

PRISCILLA QUEEN OF THE DESERT – THE MUSICAL
Wed 16 April – Mon 21 April
In less than one week, the Wilde Theatre transforms into a dazzling disco paradise as Priscilla rolls into town with glittering costumes and iconic anthems. This feel-good, high-energy musical will have you dancing in the aisles and singing all the way home. Grab your besties, bring the glam, and hop on board for an unforgettable night. Book your tickets here.

EXCLUSIVE OPEN REHEARSAL
We recently invited our Good and Best Friends for a behind-the-scenes sneak peek  to show our appreciation. If you want to support what we do and get exclusive benefits like this, check out our membership options here.

We loved seeing the professionalism and energy of the entire cast. I didn’t know the story of the musical, but now I’m so glad we’ve booked our tickets to see it! – Jill Davies, Good Friend.

I loved the upbeat nature of the warm up and the performers were amazing singers. You could tell that they all have so much more to give when the show goes live – Helen Killner, Good Friend.

LET’S WIN REGIONAL FINALS
Vote by Tue 15 April, 1pm
We’re thrilled to announce that we’ve made it to the Muddy Stiletto’s regional finals as the Best Arts, Culture & Theatre Venue in Berkshire. Winning this award would mean so much to our team and local community. Let’s bring this award home to Bracknell. Vote here. For your vote to count, please don’t forget to verify it via the confirmation email.

THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT
In the recent months, we’ve been sharing stories from the people who make South Hill Park so special. Through Keir, Basia, Luke and Ellen, we’ve celebrated the talented artists we support, and with Wilde About Arts and Wilde Young Producers, you’ve seen the difference we’re making for local young people. Every time you visit, donate, become a Friend, take part, hire a space, volunteer or sponsor us—you help make it all happen. Running our historic venue costs over £29,000 a week, even before anything is programmed, and we simply couldn’t do it without you. You are South Hill Park. 

JOIN OUR TRUSTEE BOARD
Apply by Mon 12 May, 12 noon
South Hill Park Trust is looking to appoint up to four enthusiastic, skilled individuals to join its Board. As the governing body of South Hill Park Arts Centre, the Board plays a vital role in overseeing our strategic direction and operations. If you have the relevant skills, experience, and qualities to support the work of South Hill Park, we would like to hear from you. Help us shape the future of our arts centre. For more information on the role and to apply, please visit the link here.

BRACKNELL TOGETHER WALK
Sun 18 May, 09.30am – 2pm
Join us for a fun charity walk hosted by the Rotary Club of Easthampstead and South Hill Park Trust. Choose from three scenic routes through South Hill Park or Swinley Forest. We have a team of our staff participating and we’d love for you to join us and help raise funds for our Arts Centre. The walk kicks off here between 9 am and 12 pm. Registration is just £10 per group, including a free drink and snack. Fancy dress is encouraged, face painting is free, and pets are welcome. For more details and to sign up, click the link here.

BRACKNELL PRIDE IS BACK
Sat 7 June
Now in its 3rd year, Bracknell Pride will start with a parade through the town, leaving Easthampstead Works at 11.45 am. We will have a stall at the event and our cast from Priscilla Queen of the Desert – The Musical will be performing. Join in on the fun and celebrate inclusivity with us by popping down to the Lexicon Shopping Centre, Bracknell.

PRIDE BANNER MAKING WORKSHOP
Sat 10 May, 1-4pm
To support the parade, we are holding a free banner and sign making workshop that is open to anyone who would like to show their support and allyship for our LGBTQ+ communities. We will supply sheets of card, paint, stickers, and colouring in materials. Like pride, everyone is welcome. No need to pre-book, just drop by and get creative. 

SUMMER CRAFT MARKET
Sat 25 – Sun 26 May, 10am – 5pm
Explore a stunning collection of arts and crafts from across the UK—everything from unique jewellery to beautiful wooden furniture and leather bags, all made from reclaimed and recycled materials. Come along to this free indoor event (donations on entry are welcome) and don’t miss your chance to grab a ticket for our Summer Raffle, where you could win amazing prizes.

CRAFTY CINEMA
Bridget Jones: Mad about the Boy (15)
Sun 20 April, 1pm 
Did you know that we now run Crafty Cinema screenings, where you can laugh, cry, and craft whilst watching a film? Bring your knitting, embroidery, or scrapbooking project and enjoy this heart-warming sequel with Renée Zellweger, Hugh Grant, and Leo Woodall. Book here.

REACH 6,000+ LOCALS IN ONE WEEKEND
Sat 21 – Sun 22 June, 12 – 6pm
Our annual Festival of Food and Music is a high-energy, family-friendly event pulling in thousands of locals over two days. With free entry, live tribute bands, top-notch performances, street food galore, and non-stop entertainment—it’s the ultimate summer crowd-puller. We’ve got a limited number of Corporate Stands up for grabs—perfect for getting your brand in front of an engaged audience. For more information on how to get involved, email margaretha.welsford@southhillpark.org.uk. 

OFFICES AVAILABLE TO RENT 
Are you looking for an office to rent for your business? Would you like to be based in a creative hub? South Hill Park has two rooms to rent for 3 to 5 employees.  Ideal for start-ups, small businesses, and project teams on an annual lease agreement. For further information, please contact craig.titley@nullsouthhillpark.org.uk. 

QUIZ NIGHTS
Tue 22 April, 27 May, 24 June, 29 July & 26 Aug
Are you ready to put your knowledge to the test? The Atrium Bar and Restaurant regularly host quiz nights to tickle your brain cells. If you and your team manage to outsmart everyone else, you’ll be walking away with a £100 cash prize. Grab your smartest friends, up to 6 per team, for a night of fun. Booking in advance is recommended. Email: catering@nullsouthhillpark.org.uk/ Phone: 01344 41623. 

EASY WAYS TO HELP US FUNDRAISE
Did you know that you can support us as you shop online? Simply register an account with easyfundraising scheme and companies will automatically donate towards South Hill Park when you complete your purchase – at no extra cost to you. The Bracknell Forest Lottery Scheme continues supporting our work while allowing players to win up to £25,000. Tickets are just £1 per week, and we receive fifty per cent of the profit from all tickets sold on our page, while ten per cent goes to other local good causes. Also, you can ‘refer a friend’ via this link for a chance to win an extra £200.