Celebrating the Supporters behind bristol old vic
26 May 2026
For 260 years, this theatre has been telling stories that move, challenge and inspire audiences. Every production, every young person discovering theatre for the first time, every artist stepping onto our stages has been made possible by one enduring force: the generosity of our supporters.
In many ways, Bristol Old Vic was built on philanthropy. Back in 1766, a group of local people came together with a shared cultural vision and funded the creation of a theatre for the city. Their belief in the power of storytelling laid the foundations for everything that followed.
More than two and a half centuries later, that same spirit of generosity continues to shape who we are today.
As a registered charity, supporters remain central to every part of our work. Donations of all sizes help us create extraordinary productions, nurture emerging artists, bring theatre opportunities to young people across the city and ensure our doors remain open to all.
There are many ways audiences choose to support Bristol Old Vic. Some give one-off donations, while others deepen their connection to the theatre through our membership schemes, enjoying special events, insights and opportunities to engage more closely with our work.
One member said:
It’s a pleasure to support our local producing theatre, which is driving forward with challenging work and particularly encouraging the involvement of young people. It’s great to support new work, which can be both exciting and ground breaking. I’m proud to be part of that. I love the opportunity for the ‘behind the scenes’ looks, and to feeling valued and involved by all at the theatre.
For our Circle members, support opens the door to even greater access behind the scenes, with exclusive events and opportunities to connect more deeply with the creative process.
Supporters also help ensure that world-class theatre continues to thrive in Bristol for future generations.
One one of our Future Fund supporters reflected on the impact the theatre has had on their life:
I’m immensely proud to be a supporter of Bristol Old Vic. In the 20+ years the theatre has been part of my life, I have seen shows that have changed me forever. The Smile Off Your Face in 2009, Hofesh Shechter’s Political Mother and Complicité's The Encounter in 2015, Now Is the Time to Say Nothing in 2019 and Lost Atoms and Kiss of the Spider Woman in 2026 to name just a few. We are fortunate to have a world class theatre in our midst and I wish it all the best for the next 260 years!
Legacy gifts have also played a vital role in shaping Bristol Old Vic’s history and safeguarding its future.
Many supporters have chosen to leave gifts in their Wills, helping to ensure this historic theatre can continue inspiring audiences for generations to come.
Past legacy gifts have included support from actor Tim West, whose contribution forms part of a long tradition of generosity that continues to sustain the theatre today.
Our supporters extend far beyond individual giving. Local businesses are a vital part of the Bristol Old Vic community, and we are proud to partner with organisations such as VWV, whose support helps make our Young Company possible.
Trusts and foundations have also helped Bristol Old Vic grow and evolve. Their generosity has enabled us to reimagine our historic building, expand access to theatre and create new opportunities for artists and young people across the city.
And we can’t talk about support without mentioning Arts Council England – which has been a continuous investor in Bristol Old Vic since we were established in1946, when we became the first publicly funded theatre outside London.
Together, every supporter - whether donor, member, partner, volunteer or advocate - has helped shape Bristol Old Vic into what it is today. Their continued generosity ensures we can keep telling stories, championing creativity and inspiring future generations of artists and audiences alike.
As we celebrate 260 years, we invite everyone who loves this theatre to be part of its next chapter. You can support Bristol Old Vic’s Future Fund 260 campaign, make a donation or explore the many other ways to get involved and help secure the future of this extraordinary theatre for generations to come.
