Development takes shape as Lenches amphitheatre nears opening night - The Evesham Observer

Development takes shape as Lenches amphitheatre nears opening night

Evesham Editorial 2nd Apr, 2022   0

A NEW outdoor performance space is taking shape in a small rural part of Evesham thanks to support from district council chiefs.

Work on a modern 250-seat amphitheatre on the grounds of the Lenches Sports and Recreation Club is nearing completion.

The design makes innovative use of the natural landscape, turning the gentle slope behind the club’s tennis courts into a curved, terraced seating area. The existing pavilion will also be extended to include a dressing room, green room, costume area and storage facility.

With a stunning view across the Severn Valley, and set against the backdrop of the Malvern, Abberley and Clent Hills, the venue opens up new opportunities for outdoor drama, dance, music and sporting performances.




The Lenches Sports and Recreation Club worked with South Lenches Parish Council to make their vision a reality, with Wychavon backing the project with a £95,000 Community Legacy Grant in 2019.

Part of the case for its construction was based around improving access to the arts in rural communities, with several groups, including the Greater Lenches Amateur Dramatic Society, endorsing the project and confirming their desire to perform there.


The cricket club and other sports teams will also benefit from purpose-built seating for spectators and more secure storage space for machinery, kit and equipment.

Construction of the amphitheatre started in March 2020. After dealing with some disruptions caused by bad weather and the pandemic, it should be finished and open to the public this summer.

Coun Rob Adams, executive board member for Stronger Communities, Culture and Sport, hailed the impact of the grant scheme in another area of the district.

Club secretary Patrick Twist, said: “There have been some significant challenges over the last couple of years but it’s testament to the hard work of the project team and the local community that we’ve successfully overcome them and soon we’ll be able to enjoy the finished amphitheatre.”

Chris Seabourne, chairman of South Lenches Parish Council, said: “We’re so excited about the new opportunities that the amphitheatre will bring to the Lenches and the wider community.

“Sports teams, performers and spectators will all benefit so much from it.”

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