Altrincham Garrick Playhouse launches major fundraising appeal to improve audience comfort
The Altrincham Garrick Playhouse has today announced the launch of its CHILI Campaign Cool Heat It Love It, a major fundraising appeal to install a state of the art heating, ventilation and air conditioning system in its Main Auditorium.
For generations, the Garrick has been at the heart of Altrincham’s cultural life, welcoming audiences to its theatre, cinema, youth academy and wide range of community activities. As a much loved historic building, maintaining a consistent and comfortable temperature has long presented challenges. Many regular visitors will recall occasions when the auditorium has felt too cold in winter or overly warm during the summer months.
Following extensive feedback from audiences, volunteers and performers, the Garrick is now taking decisive action to address this issue and future proof the building for years to come.
The proposed HVAC system will significantly enhance comfort for everyone who uses the theatre, including audiences, visiting companies, staff, volunteers and young people taking part in classes and workshops. The total cost of the project is £120,000, but the scheme has been carefully designed to be delivered in four manageable phases of £30,000, allowing improvements to begin as soon as funds are raised.
As a registered charity and not for profit organisation, the Altrincham Garrick relies on the generosity of its supporters and the wider community to fund essential improvements. The CHILI Campaign offers several ways for individuals and businesses to play their part.
The campaign has been given an early boost thanks to a generous £2,000 donation from long standing Garrick member and volunteer Stuart Slade. Stuart has been involved with the theatre since 1986, initially attending to support his wife Janet, who joined as an acting member. He was soon drawn into the life of the Garrick himself and has since devoted almost 40 years as a committed volunteer.
Stuart said
We have listened, now we’re acting to install a state of the art HVAC system into the main auditorium. I am delighted to be able to make this donation to kick start the necessary fundraising campaign and urge everyone who loves the Garrick to help us raise the funds as quickly as possible for the year round benefit of everyone who attends and works at the theatre.
Supporters can make a lasting contribution by purchasing a personalised fundraising plaque to be displayed inside the theatre. Silver plaques are available for a suggested donation of £150 or more, gold plaques for £300 or more, and business plaques from £1,000. Plaques can be purchased via the Garrick Box Office on 0161 928 1677 or through the Buy a Plaque page at www.altrinchamgarrick.co.uk/chili.
The campaign also includes the CHILI Grand Draw, with tickets priced at £10. The first draw will take place on 20 April 2026, with prizes including a luxury Harrods hamper, VIP tickets to Garrick productions, Friends memberships and exclusive Garrick merchandise. Tickets are available from the Box Office, foyer, kiosk and authorised sellers.
In addition, patrons booking tickets online are invited to donate to the CHILI Campaign at checkout, with the option to add Gift Aid where applicable, increasing the value of their contribution at no extra cost.
By supporting the CHILI Campaign, the community can help ensure that every visit to the Altrincham Garrick is comfortable and enjoyable whatever the season and help safeguard this much loved local theatre for future generations.
For more information about the CHILI Campaign and how to support it, please visit altrinchamgarrick.co.uk or contact the Garrick Box Office.
