GRIFFIN THEATRE COMPANY PURCHASES SBW STABLES THEATRE

In an enormous act of generosity, the Neilson Foundation has made a multi-million dollar gift to allow the Griffin Theatre Company to purchase the SBW Stables Theatre and the adjoining terrace—paving the way for a major redevelopment of the Stables.

It’s the largest philanthropic gift in the company’s history—and will give Griffin full agency and autonomy over its beloved little theatre.

On the back of the NSW Government’s support of $5 million for the redevelopment the gift from the Neilson Foundation represents a significant turning point for Griffin.

Visionary philanthropist Dr. Rodney Seaborn saved the Stables in 1986 when it was up for sale and risked demolition. The Stables was purchased for $200,000 by The Seaborn, Broughton & Walford Foundation, who have generously offered Griffin use of the theatre rent-free since then. They also own the adjoining offices—Griffin HQ—which they provide to us at a subsidised rent.

Dr Rodney Seaborn’s vision of a permanent home for Griffin has now been fully realised through this gift from the Neilson Foundation.

This paves the way for a major $10 million redevelopment of the Stables, supported by the NSW Government with funding of $5 million and coupled with matched funding through Griffin’s own capital fundraising campaign (to be shared with you very soon!).

The new theatre’s capacity will be 44% larger and wheelchair accessible, with an improved dressing room and a brand new rehearsal space.