Merton’s community groups can grace the stage of Wimbledon’s famous theatre thanks to a partnership between the venue and the council.

The New Wimbledon Theatre is available for hire at a reduced rate for up to four weeks per year, with budding performers able to benefit from the Broadway venue’s facilities, technical, front of house and box office teams.

Last year the council contributed towards ongoing renovation and refurbishment work at the theatre, which is celebrating its 100th anniversary. Now the two have teamed up to welcome groups to apply for the opportunity to perform on the stage.

The first community curtain call went to the Wimbledon Light Opera Society who performed My Fair Lady last week, while next week Merton’s youngsters and the Youth Theatre will present their own centenary celebration in a performance sponsored by the Wimbledon Civic Theatre Trust.

Maralyn Sarrington, executive general manager of the theatre, said: “We look forward to producing a fabulous professional show as we work with the numerous local young people to produce something really special on “their” stage. I urge the local community to support it.”

Merton Council director for environment and regeneration, Chris Lee, said the borough was lucky to have a venue for both famous and community acts.

For more information about the discount, go to www.merton.gov.uk/nwtcommunitylets