Welcome to the Squire Performing Arts Centre

We are a highly flexible, multi-use performance space in the heart of Nottingham city centre, for use by all performing arts, including dance, music and theatre. We are a unique venue with two distinct performance spaces – the main house is a 260 raked seated theatre, and our Weston Studio has retractable seating for 74.

We are used for drama, musicals, dance recitals, music and comedy performances, presentation and awards evenings and conferences. With full technical facilities, backstage amenities and bar & foyer area, the Squire Performing Arts Centre truly is an amazingly flexible theatre space. 

We work with groups from Nottingham to showcase their work, and are always looking for new and established production companies and promoters to perform at our theatre. If you are part of a local or touring theatre company, and would like more information please do not hesitate to get in touch!

Our friendly team of technical and front of house staff are always on hand to attend to your every need. Our diverse team of casual staff come from a range of arts & events backgrounds. Feel free to get in touch and have a chat with us!

Thinking of staging a production or event?

With such superb facilities, Squire Performing Arts Centre may be the venue for you.

With such high specification technical and performance facilities why choose anywhere else?

Flexible staging and seating options

A seated capacity of 260 people in the Main House

A seated capacity of 74 people in the Weston Studio

Accessible facilities for performers and visitors

Central Nottingham location

We thoroughly enjoyed using the venue

“We thoroughly enjoyed using the venue. Both performers and audience members commented on how lovely the venue was for the event.”

Dance4
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Our History

The Squire Performing Arts Centre opened in Spring 2017. This stunning state-of- the-art theatre is part of Nottingham Girls GDST and has been named in honour of Dame Rosemary Squire DBE, a former student, to reflect her support of the project, her association with the school and prominent position in British theatre.

“I had a fantastic time at Nottingham Girls’ High School, which instilled a love of the arts in me that encouraged me to pursue my career in theatre,” said Rosemary Squire. “It is therefore a great honour to not just have been involved in the fundraising for this new performing arts centre, but also to have my family name connected to a place that was so important to me. I can’t wait to see both the school and the local community benefit from it and to be in the audience for its many future exciting productions.”

We are very passionate that whilst the theatre is used to provide a space for the school, it is also available for use by all arts organisations, performers and artists. We are especially keen that the building is used for the teaching and learning of all performance arts. Students of all ages from all backgrounds can learn through workshops and events alongside teachers and professionals in each field, and within the working space of a professional theatre.

Our Mission

A versatile, creative space for performing arts, creating a platform for all generations to explore the arts, to inspire, captivate, engage and enrich the world through the power of performance and creative education.

Our Vision

To inspire and empower people to explore creative learning and embrace the arts.

To develop a space for the arts to flourish.

To engage and welcome all audiences, developing a diverse community to become enthusiastic and enjoy unique experiences.

To invest in anyone interested in developing their career and passion for the arts. From tiny tots exploring dance, to local artists, professional performers and budding technicians. 

To be an inclusive space with a range of exciting content where precious memories can be forged. 

Our Values

Create | Collaborate | Champion