New London Architecture

NLA Nights: Soho Theatre Walthamstow

Talk

Wednesday 29 October 2025
18:00 - 20:30

Explore how culture-led regeneration is revitalising London’s high streets, with Soho Theatre Walthamstow showcasing community and economic renewal through the creation of a new theatre.
The restoration of the Grade II* listed former Granada Cinema marks the triumphant return of a cultural icon. Meticulously repaired, sensitively future-proofed, and once again at the heart of Walthamstow’s community life, Soho Theatre Walthamstow exemplifies how culture can drive local regeneration. Delivered through a partnership between Soho Theatre and the London Borough of Waltham Forest, following a decades long community campaign, this landmark project has revived a much-loved building while creating a vibrant new destination for theatre, comedy and performance.
 
This edition of NLA Nights will explore the wider role of theatre in high street regeneration. Using Soho Theatre Walthamstow as a case study of culture-led economic renewal, the evening will feature presentations, panel discussions, and tours of the venue. Join us to celebrate the partnership behind this ambitious project, network over drinks, and experience the beautifully restored venue first-hand.

Programme

18:00  Arrivals and registration
 
18:30  Welcome from NLA
            Catherine Staniland, Director, NLA
 
18:35  Soho Theatre Walthamstow: local culture-led economic regeneration 
            Cllr Ahsan Khan, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for Housing and Regeneration, London Borough of Waltham
            Forest 
            Sam Hansford, Co-Executive Director, Soho Theatre Walthamstow 
            Fred Pilbrow, Founding Partner, Pilbrow & Partners 
            Karl Sydow, Independent Producer, Theatre & Film, Karl Sydow Productions
 
19:10  Panel discussion + Q&A
 
19:30  Tours and networking
 
20:30  End

Speaker biographies

Fred Pilbrow

Senior Founding Partner, Pilbrow & Partners

Catherine Staniland

Director, NLA

Karl Sydow

Independent Producer, Theatre & Film, Kindred Partners


Culture

#NLACulture

In association with

Venue

186 Hoe St, 
London 
E17 4QH  

Accessibility

Soho Theatre Walthamstow offers step-free access from Hoe Street to the main auditorium via a lift and ramp, with accessible toilet facilities available. The venue is equipped with wheelchair spaces.

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