Phyllis Maud Performance Space

Phyllis Maud Performance Space
The Phyllis Maud Performance Space in April 2019
Map
AddressAlexandra Road
Newport
Wales
Coordinates51°33′50″N 2°59′17″W / 51.563837°N 2.988139°W / 51.563837; -2.988139
OwnerJanet Martin
DesignationGrade II listed
TypeNon-profit producing theatre
Capacity25–35
Construction
Opened2019; 6 years ago (2019)
Rebuilt2018
Years active2019 – present

The Phyllis Maud Performance Space is a Grade II listed former public toilet in Newport, South Wales.[1]

History

The building ceased to operate as a public convenience in 2006.[2] In September 2017, the former public toilet on Alexandra Road was sold at auction for £31,500 to a bidder who planned to turn the building into a cafe.[3] However, the successful bidder then pulled out, and Janet Martin subsequently purchased the building from the council for £15,000.[4][5]

In June 2018 the local council approved plans to convert the space into a 25-seat theatre, which they considered would be a positive addition to an area "in need of both physical and social regeneration". Janet Martin decided to name the venue after her late aunt.[6]

Owner Janet Martin is also responsible for other arts venues including the Robbins Lane Studios and Barnabas Arts House.[2] The venue opened in April 2019.[7] The opening was attended by around 100 people.[8]

References

  1. ^ Cadw. "Public Conveniences (Grade II) (18177)". National Historic Assets of Wales. Retrieved 3 September 2023.
  2. ^ a b "Public toilet could become theatre". Insider Media Ltd. Retrieved 2019-05-18.
  3. ^ "New owner derelict toilet block in Pill wants to turn it into a coffee shop". South Wales Argus. Retrieved 2019-05-18.
  4. ^ "Listed toilet block spectacularly transformed into performance space after £40k revamp". South Wales Argus. Retrieved 2019-05-18.
  5. ^ "Art Deco style toilet block going to auction with no chain". Out News. 17 January 2020. Retrieved 14 October 2020.
  6. ^ "Theatre plan for toilet approved". Insider Media Ltd. Retrieved 2019-05-18.
  7. ^ "Former city 'eyesore' transformed into theatre will soon be opening". South Wales Argus. Retrieved 2019-05-18.
  8. ^ "Crowds descend for unveiling of new theatre converted from derelict toilet block". South Wales Argus. Retrieved 2019-05-18.