Theatre hosts auction to help secure its future

The theatre staged its first full-scale pantomime, Cinderella, in 2023

A theatre that opened 15 years ago is celebrating its anniversary with an auction to help raise funds to secure its future.

The Core at Corby Cube, in Northamptonshire, has welcomed more than 70,000 audience members since 2010 and has "made an estimated local economic impact of £43.6m", it said.

The charity that runs the venue said prizes, experiences and treats were on offer at the event to ensure the arts were "accessible to all".

Joe Flavin, its director, said: "It's an invitation to everyone who loves the arts to invest in the future of creativity here in Corby."

Danny Hero took to the stage in 2016, in the 445-seat venue

Corby Cube opened in November 2010, with the building also housing the town's library and council offices. It was £13m over budget and had issues with a leaking roof.

The charity said: "Alongside hosting world-class artists and companies, we've championed creativity in our community, with over 170,000 people taking part in workshops, projects and participatory events."

It had also "welcomed visiting professional companies, supported local amateur groups, and developed outreach and education programmes to engage young people in the arts".

The auction items, including behind-the-scenes opportunities, have been donated by local businesses so it could "continue to bring quality theatre and events to Corby, as well as supporting outreach programmes and ensuring the arts are accessible to all, especially children and young people".

A Hip Hop Slam was held at the theatres opening in 2010

Mr Flavin said: "Turning 15 is a huge milestone for us, and a real testament to the passion of our community, staff and artists.

"This auction is more than a fundraiser, it's an invitation to everyone who loves the arts to invest in the future of creativity here in Corby."

Bidding will close on Friday, 10 October.