🎭 The Riverside Theatre Closed — But This Is Still Not The End

👉 On 1 August 2025, Ulster University closed the Riverside Theatre.

Thousands of people backed the campaign — signatures, peaceful protests, media coverage, and cross-party support — because the Riverside wasn’t just a building. It was a key part of Coleraine’s cultural, educational, and community life.

The result is clear: Coleraine now has a major gap in mid-scale theatre and performance provision.

🫶 Thank you to everyone who signed, shared, showed up, wrote letters, and helped keep this in the public eye. What you built was real — and it still matters.

🎭 What happens next
The campaign now moves into the planning phase — making sure the need for a replacement arts space is written into the strategies and investment plans that shape the next 10 years.

Right now, there are two key routes:

• Coleraine regeneration / Town Fund planning, 
• Causeway Coast & Glens Arts / Museums / Community Development Strategy consultation (2026–29)

➡️ Our ask is simple:
A new, fully accessible, multi-purpose arts venue that serves:

• youth theatre & schools
• music, dance & drama groups
• community rehearsals and performances
• projects for older people (including dementia-friendly activity)
• exhibitions, local events and wider community use

🖊️ Take action (2 minutes):
Complete the current survey/consultation and state clearly:
“Coleraine needs a new accessible multi-purpose arts venue to replace the Riverside Theatre.”

👉 Fill out the survey: HERE

🗣️ This is how we keep momentum alive. Every response counts.🎭