School aims to raise £6m for performing arts centre

A school is hoping to raise £6m for a new creative and performing arts centre.

The proposed Charles Lepper Centre at the Crypt School in Gloucester would include a 240-seat flexible performance space, rehearsal and teaching areas, and professional-standard technical and recording facilities.

It is hoped the project will be delivered in two stages over five years, with about £3m required for each phase.

Announcing the fundraising campaign on Friday, headmaster Nicholas Dyer said the centre would allow students to "realise their full potential" and open up "opportunities for the wider community" in the city.

"Our students achieve remarkable things with limited resources, but their environment is holding them back," he added.

The facility is to be named in honour of the school's former head of English.

The centre would also support activities from music and drama to debate, exhibitions, and community events.

The grammar school, which includes songwriter Ian Dench from EMF among its alumni, said the plans would address long-standing limitations in their facilities, with current students forced to rehearse in classrooms, corridors and shared spaces.

Development manager for the school, Sarah Veal, who is leading the campaign, said: "This is about more than a building. It's about ensuring that every young person has the opportunity to explore their creativity, regardless of background.

"We want this to be a shared space – one that brings people together and strengthens the whole community."

Several donations have already been pledged but the school is encouraging individuals, alumni, businesses and charitable organisations to help.

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