The Bright Foundation has relaunched its Barn Theatre and Museum following improvements to the venue, with a series of open days and a special event held on 29 May.

The celebration marked a significant moment as the Foundation celebrates its fourth anniversary and the completion of the refurbishment works and included the unveiling of theatre seats sponsored by leading figures from stage and screen, including Dame Judi Dench, Dame Imelda Staunton, Jim Carter OBE, and Academy Award-winning costume designer Jenny Beavan OBE.

Among the guests were children’s author Dame Jacqueline Wilson, actor Amanda Burton, Jenny Beavan and Hastings and Rye MP Helena Dollimore, alongside representatives from local community organisations.

Visitors enjoyed a performance of The Ballad of Red and the Wilding Wolf, a new production specially commissioned by The Bright Foundation and directed by their Arts and Theatre Learning Leader Poppy Rowley. Inspired by Little Red Riding Hood, the 30-minute show explores themes of kindness, humour, and environmental responsibility.

Over the past three months, more than 600 local schoolchildren have attended free performances and workshops linked to the production.

Speaking after the show, Dame Jacqueline Wilson said: “I’ve seen many things for children, but I don’t think I’ve ever seen anything as imaginative as that. It was funny, it was sad, and it had a really good message.”

The theatre grounds were transformed with interactive installations inspired by scenes from the play, including Grandma’s House, The Belly of the Wolf, and The Camp Fire. More than 350 members of the public attended the open days.

Founded by Academy Award-winning costume designer John Bright, The Bright Foundation provides free creative learning and filmmaking opportunities for children and young people across Hastings and Rother.

Since opening in 2022, the charity has engaged more than 14,000 people, including 8,000 children and young people.

The Barn Theatre and Museum features a 50-seat children’s theatre and a museum displaying John Bright’s collection of antique toys, puppets, and model theatre sets. The Foundation’s second venue, the Benbow Arts Space in St Leonards, opened in 2024 and serves as a creative learning hub focused on filmmaking.

For more information or to join The Bright Foundation’s Supporters Circle see here.