Theatre Porto retains National Portfolio Organisation status

Theatre Porto (formerly Action Transport Theatre) have announced that they received increased investment through the Arts Council England (ACE) 2023-26 Investment Programme.

During an incredibly challenging period of time for the arts and cultural sector nationwide, Theatre Porto are delighted to hear that they will remain a National Portfolio Organisation (NPO), with an increase in funding - allowing us to build on our track record as a specialist theatre company making outstanding work for, by and with children and young people.  

Following our ambitious £2.8M capital programme which has resulted in a unique new cultural venue and state of art theatre in Ellesmere Port, we are one of a few dedicated spaces in England centred on children and young people’s theatre and creativity.  

Over the next three years Theatre Porto will continue to create life-changing experiences for children, young people and families, to support artists and to create world class professional theatre. We will bring national and international artists to Ellesmere Port and ensure that local audiences and participants can access the very best artistic opportunities on their doorstep.  

Theatre Porto Artistic Director, Nina Hajiyianni said: 

“It’s a massive achievement for us to not only receive continued funding from Arts Council England, but also a 30% uplift despite being in an incredibly competitive climate, and Ellesmere Port frequently being overlooked as a ‘priority’ area. We’re grateful that our work has been recognised and that Ellesmere Port will benefit from this new round of investment, allowing us to do what we do best.” 

We continue to seek the remaining financial support needed to meet the full cost of operating our wonderful new venue and programme and look forward to working with Arts Council England and Cheshire West and Chester Council over the next three years to realise our ambitions. We want to thank all our partners, young people, associate artists, funders, supporters and stakeholders who have been with us on our journey.  

If you’d like to support the on-going work of our charity, please visit our fundraising page https://actiontransporttheatre.enthuse.com/ or email us via:

info@TheatrePorto.org  

For anyone yet to visit the brand-new Theatre Porto in Ellesmere Port why not come and see our festive show, Star of Wonder - tickets are available via: 

https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/theatre-porto/