20 January 2025
Dartford’s temporary venue Orchard West has triumphed at The Stage Awards 2025 by winning the Innovation Award! The ceremony took place at the Royal Opera House’s Linbury Theatre, London earlier today.
When The Orchard Theatre was forced to temporarily close in 2023 due to the discovery of RAAC concrete, the Orchard team, Trafalgar Entertainment and Dartford Borough Council worked tirelessly to find a solution to keep theatre alive in Dartford. That innovative solution was to build a state-of-the-art temporary venue, Orchard West, which was conceived, constructed and opened within the space of three months.
Tal Rosen, Theatre Director for Orchard Theatre/Orchard West accepted the award on behalf of Orchard West, Trafalgar Entertainment and Dartford Borough Council.
Tal said: “It is an incredible honour to accept the Innovation Award on behalf of The Orchard West Theatre, Dartford Borough Council, and Trafalgar Entertainment. This award is not just a celebration of innovation but a recognition of resilience, creativity, and most importantly, the power of collaboration.
“In September 2023, we faced an unprecedented challenge when issues relating to RAAC Concrete at The Orchard Theatre in Dartford, forced its immediate closure. It was a devastating moment— not just for the venue, but for our local community, our Team, and the audiences who have made the theatre a cultural cornerstone of Dartford.
“But in the face of adversity, we found opportunity. Working in partnership with Dartford Borough Council, we turned a crisis into a catalyst for innovation. Orchard West was born— a venue conceived, built, and fully operational within just three months. From state-of-the-art sound and lighting infrastructure – to its modular, sustainable design, Orchard West has redefined what a theatre can achieve under immense pressure.”
“But the story doesn’t end there,” Tal adds. “Innovation also extended beyond the stage. With several local and government grants, we transformed a derelict sports centre into a thriving community hub – that now hosts everything from ukulele clubs, choirs, local youth clubs, our summer your project to Dartford Pride. This new space has brought people together in ways we never could of imagined, proving that the arts can inspire connection and community even through the toughest of times.
“Orchard West is more than a temporary venue. It’s a symbol of what can be achieved when determination meets collaboration. I want to thank Dartford Borough Council, Trafalgar Entertainment, our incredible team, and the Supporting Producers and Promoters for making this vision into a reality. This award belongs to all of you. Together, we’ve not only safeguarded the arts in Dartford but also set a bold standard for what cultural innovation can achieve. Here’s to the continued growth of our vibrant and resilient cultural scene. Thank you!”