1st February 1820, Matthew William Thompson was born. This is the man who led the initiative and ultimately funded the building of Guiseley Theatre [Guiseley Town Hall]. Throughout the 1800’s he inspired the people of Guiseley with his vision for a community centre leading calls for the community to donate as little as one shilling to make this community asset a reality.
Upon its completion, Sir Matthew William Thompson gave the deeds for the building to the town council stating that it was “for the use of the inhabitants of Guiseley forever”.
To celebrate his 200th birthday, the Board of the new Guiseley Theatre CIC (Community Interest Company) are very excited to share their plans for the redevelopment of the building and invite the public to input on the concept plans. Guiseley Theatre is on the brink of big changes and needs the support of the public to achieve their goals. You can view the plans in full and leave a comment at www.guiseleytheatre.org/redevelopment or contact Guiseley Theatre on 07762563689 to arrange a meeting to go through the plans.Inspired by Thompson and the Victorian Guiseley community they are also launching their first fundraising campaign. Sir Matthew William Thompson managed to raise £373 over 150 years ago. The new Board have taken that amount and multiplied it by 10 to set the target of raising £3730 to kick start their plans. If you are able to support another 150 years and cement this fantastic building as a community hub for many years to come, head to www.justgiving.com/crowdfunding/guiseleytheatrematthews200th or contact the Theatre directly to make a donation.
