Charles Cryer Centre due to reopen in November

The centre will reopen in November following refurbishment work.  Facilities will include the theatre and performance space together with a new bar/restaurant on the ground floor and potential retail units to the rear. A workshop with one of very few remaining full-size stage backdrop paint frames is to be let to a West End and international production company.  

The Cryer will offer music, comedy, performance, a venue for local groups and community activities as well as a new restaurant and bar, all adding to the leisure and cultural facilities available in the area. 

Councillor Steve Cook, Sutton’s lead member for cultural services, said:

“I’m really pleased that we have completed this lease and that Cryer Arts can move forward with their plans to make the Cryer a real asset to the community and a successful business.  It’s great to have a new performance and music space and this has come at a good time for our bid to be London Borough of Culture in 2023. I wish Cryer Arts every success and would encourage everyone to visit, use the restaurant and bar, see a performance or hire the theatre for their group.”

Early bookings include a children’s Christmas pantomime, a series of one-night drama and music shows and a photographic exhibition. The bar is on course to open in early November with restaurant service following soon after.

Cryer Arts Limited was formed to bid for the opportunity to take over the Cryer and won the competition which included presentations to community groups. The process has been led on behalf of Cryer Arts by Rodger Molyneux, also known locally as landlord of the award-winning Hope pub. Rodger’s track record in the hospitality industry along with his fellow directors’ expertise in performance, music and premises management together point to a bright future for the Cryer.