Cornwall’s iconic and longest-serving touring company has been awarded a “game changing” £541,016 grant over two years. 

Miracle Theatre will receive the funding through the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity Fund through the £132m Good Growth Programme, which will “ensure its future for years to come.” 

The grant will help Miracle Theatre develop new ways of working for the future, create new opportunities for Duchy artists and amplify and extend its services, reaching across the length and breadth of Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly, all year round. 

Bill Scott, artistic director of Miracle Theatre, said: “This grant is a transformative milestone for Miracle Theatre and the communities we serve. 

“For over four decades, we have been dedicated to making high-quality theatre accessible to all. 

“The Good Growth grant empowers us to continue this mission, fostering creativity, nurturing local talent, and bringing communities together through the performing arts.” 

At the heart of this initiative is the creation of Miracle Lab, a creative hub, uniting experienced artists, and creative practitioners to incubate fresh ideas collaboratively. 

Establishing a robust theatre production pipeline that embraces experimentation and innovation to develop and refine new touring productions, with Cornish audiences always at the heart of the work.  

Additionally, Miracle Camp, a talent incubator, is aimed at discovering and nurturing emerging artists in Cornwall and Isles of Scilly through residential workshops – providing writers, directors, and actors with a supportive environment to hone their craft. 

Miracle Theatre is also building a network of passionate individuals across Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly to serve as community collaborators. 

These individuals will be the bridge between Miracle Theatre and the local communities, guiding the theatre company to create experiences that deeply resonate with audiences. 

Furthermore, the Miracle Commissions Initiative will foster collaborations across sectors, from social care to festivals, promoting creativity and addressing critical societal needs. 

The grant is enabling Miracle Theatre to host an indoor tour for the first time in 10 years. 

Visiting Theatres, village halls and community centres across Cornwall and Isles of Scilly with Hell’s Bells.  The tour is set to run from February to April 2024.