A SALISBURY theatre that has launched careers, welcomed major stars and drawn audiences from across the country is preparing for its biggest transformation in decades.

Salisbury Playhouse unveiled ambitious plans today (June 5) for a £22 million redevelopment of its historic home – a project theatre leaders said is about far more than bricks and mortar.

Announced during the Playhouse’s 50th anniversary year, the vision includes a fully accessible, net zero venue, upgraded backstage workshops and wardrobe spaces, modern technical equipment and improved facilities for audiences and performers alike.

Proposed new frontage for the Playhouse shown during the presentation. (Picture: Andrea Glennon)

Speaking at the event at the Playhouse this morning, co-CEO and artistic director Gareth Machin described the theatre as “an incredible asset” with a national reputation for producing talent.

“We are part of a big national story,” he said.

Pointing to names linked to Salisbury Playhouse over the years, from Paddington The Musical writer Jessica Swale to actor Ewan McGregor, Gareth said the redevelopment would help ensure future generations continue to benefit.

Co-CEO and artistic director Gareth Machin addresses those gathered. (Picture: Andrea Glennon)

“We want to make sure future generations can enjoy [the Playhouse],” he said. “We want teams in the future to prioritise the art, not having to put huge amounts of money aside for wear and tear on the building.”

But it was actor Emilia Williams, born and raised in Salisbury and now appearing as Lady Capulet in the Playhouse’s major Romeo and Juliet production, who delivered the most heartfelt argument for why the theatre matters.

Actress Amelia Williams was proud to be ‘home’! (Picture: Andrea Glennon)

Emilia said joining the Playhouse’s youth theatre group, Stage 65, as a teenager “changed the course of my life”.

“I found myself in a room full of odd, quirky, cool, passionate young people my own age who were frighteningly talented,” she said.

“It was the most fun I’ve ever had. We laughed until our stomachs hurt. We learned how to make other people laugh.”

More importantly, she said, the Playhouse gave young people confidence, discipline and purpose.

“Great performers don’t appear by accident,” she said. “They need someone to discover who they are, to learn, to grow, to find their voice.”

Returning to Salisbury years later as a professional actor has been deeply personal, Emilia added.

“For so many of us, this isn’t just a theatre – it’s home,” she said.

Salisbury MP John Glen described the redevelopment as a “key moment” for the city and said the investment could strengthen Salisbury’s national reputation and bring more visitors into the city centre.

Salisbury MP John Glen was thrilled at the plans afoot. (Picture: Andrea Glennon)

The Playhouse hopes work can be completed over the next three years with more updates available in due course.

Look out for our separate interview with co-CEO Rosa Corbishley where she explains why the redevelopment is needed now – and what it could mean for Salisbury’s future.