First the Gurkhas, now Joanna Lumley helps to save Islington theatre
Louise Jury
Chief Arts Correspondent
19/02/2010
The widow of the founder of the King's Head Theatre in Islington has bought the venue for £1.4 million — with the help of Joanna Lumley.
After 40 years of perilous finances, the long-term future of the pub theatre, where stars such as Hugh Grant forged their early careers, is now secure.
Stephanie Sinclaire, 55, wants to press ahead with plans to add a second storey, which would increase capacity from 120 seats to 199, a rehearsal studio and workshop.
The aim is for the King's Head to return to being a full-time producer of its own works as it was under her late husband Dan Crawford, who founded it in 1970.
Ms Sinclaire said: “The King's Head Theatre is held in special affection by the theatrical community and loved by the public and we are delighted to have been able to ensure the show will go on ad infinitum.
The theatre has seen stars including Victoria Wood, Rupert Graves, Samuel West, Antony Sher and Alan Rickman appear in its productions. It has transferred more than 40 shows to the West End.
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