Business Details
44 Years
experience
Arts & Culture Centre in Bordon, Hampshire
Phoenix Arts has been the steward of arts and cultural activities in the Bordon and Whitehill area since its founding in 1982. As a registered charity, we have dedicated over three decades to staging theatrical productions, hosting community events, and delivering diverse arts education through workshops and classes. Our organisation is governed by a board of trustees committed to fostering creativity and accessibility across all artistic disciplines. The Phoenix Theatre, our flagship venue, was repurposed from a former Edwardian school and now serves as a vibrant hub for theatre, music, dance, and visual arts. We maintain strong partnerships with local businesses and cultural organisations throughout East Hampshire, ensuring our programming remains relevant and inclusive.Our facilities include accessible event spaces, rehearsal rooms, and the Cube @ The Shed, which offers contemporary performance opportunities. Through initiatives like the Phoenix Players amateur dramatics group and the Arts4all disability arts programme, we strive to make the arts accessible to all members of our community. Our team combines professional expertise with passionate advocacy for the transformative power of the arts, as evidenced by our recognition from Arts Council England as a National Portfolio Organisation since 2022.
Services
Theatre Productions
Arts Workshops
Venue Hire
Disability Arts
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1982
Highlights and features
- Established arts centre operating since 1982 with proven community impact
- Diverse programming covering theatre, music, dance, and visual arts
- Fully accessible venues meeting modern inclusivity standards
- Award-winning community outreach and disability arts initiatives
- Professional team with extensive experience in arts management
Associations and certifications
- Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation
- Registered Charity No. 1166858
Services
Theatre Productions
We produce and host professional and amateur theatre performances across multiple venues. Our programming includes classic plays, contemporary works, and community productions. The Phoenix Players amateur dramatics group stages several shows annually, while visiting companies present touring productions throughout the year.
Arts Workshops
Regular workshops cover diverse artistic disciplines including dance, music, visual arts, and creative writing. Sessions cater to all ages and abilities, with specific programmes for children, seniors, and individuals with disabilities. Our instructors combine professional expertise with community engagement experience.
Venue Hire
We offer flexible event spaces for hire including former classrooms with natural lighting and adaptable layouts. The Phoenix Theatre and Cube @ The Shed accommodate performances, conferences, and community gatherings. Technical support and equipment hire available for professional productions.
Disability Arts
Our Arts4all programme provides tailored arts experiences for people with disabilities. We offer adapted workshops, accessible performances, and sensory-friendly events. The programme includes collaboration with disability arts groups and training for artists in inclusive practices.
Community Outreach
We deliver outreach initiatives connecting arts with local communities through partnerships with schools, care facilities, and social organisations. Activities include participatory projects, school workshops, and collaborative events that use arts to address social inclusion and wellbeing.
People
Rob Allerston
CEO
Rob joined Phoenix Arts in 2010 with a commitment to community empowerment through arts. He champions inclusivity for underrepresented groups and combines arts leadership with his enthusiasm for classic vehicles.
Sally McIlhone
Marketing Officer
With 15 years in communications, Sally specialises in new writing and maternal voice amplification. She produces cultural content while managing marketing strategies that connect arts with diverse audiences.
Amy Wheeler
Marketing Assistant
Amy combines arts passion with organisational expertise, contributing to marketing campaigns while creating jewellery and performing music in local venues.
Sam Cole
Apprentice Creative Venue Technician
Sam supports venue operations since 2022, blending technical theatre skills with musical production experience while contributing to event execution and facility management.
Elizabeth Blake
Dance Officer
Liz has led dance programming since 2012, promoting dance as essential human expression that enhances physical and mental wellbeing through regular classes and performance opportunities.
Questions
How can I participate in arts activities?
Join our workshops, Phoenix Players amateur group, or Arts4all disability programme. We offer classes for all ages and abilities in performing and visual arts.
Is the venue accessible for disabled visitors?
All venues have accessibility features including wheelchair access, adapted facilities, and sensory-friendly adaptations. Our Arts4all programme specifically supports inclusive participation.
Can I hire event spaces at Phoenix Arts?
Yes, we offer multiple adaptable spaces with technical equipment available. Our venues accommodate performances, conferences, and community events with support from experienced staff.
How is Phoenix Arts funded?
As a registered charity (No. 1166858), we receive Arts Council England support, ticket sales, memberships, donations, and venue hire income to sustain our community arts programmes.
What community initiatives do you offer?
We provide outreach workshops, school partnerships, intergenerational projects, and targeted programmes that use arts to enhance wellbeing and social cohesion in East Hampshire.
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