Claybody Theatre secure future at historic Spode Works
Claybody Theatre has cemented their future in the heart of one of Stoke-on-Trent’s most iconic sites.
The theatre company has been performing on Spode Works since 2017 and first opened the doors in 2023, to a building previously known as Shed 8R, and now called The Dipping House.
Now, and following a new lease agreement with Stoke-on-Trent City Council, the site will be their permanent home for at least the next 15 years.
As part of the agreement, Claybody Theatre is working with the council to further develop the venue ready for performances and productions later this year.
(Images by Stoke-on-Trent City Council and Claybody Theatre)
“We’re absolutely delighted to have secured the future of The Dipping House,” says Deborah McAndrew, Co-Artistic Director at Claybody Theatre.
“The Dipping House has proven to be a great space for us and we have already welcomed thousands of visitors who have come to watch our performances, plus participate in workshops and other events.
“In going forward we will continue to collaborate with the City Council to develop the venue for Theatre, Arts and Community activities and events right in the heart of this incredible and historic site at Spode Works.
“One of the priorities for us is to install more toilets – which are already underway and set to be ready for later this year.”
Councillor Finlay Gordon-McCusker, cabinet member for transport, infrastructure and regeneration, said: “This is a real statement of intent and is great news for the site, the town of Stoke and the city as a whole. Businesses like this really are the heart and soul of Spode’s regeneration.”
Bright Lights Over Bentilee
Claybody Theatre are true advocates of Stoke-on-Trent overall and base their shows on the City. Their venue is also named after a former pottery dipping house which was at Spode.
Their first show at The Dipping House was Song of the Sytch and last year the popular Bright Lights over Bentilee – which received national attention – was a sell out.
Also in February 2024, Patron of Claybody Theatre, actor Toby Jones – who received an honorary degree from Keele University this year – took part in an ‘audience with’ event – which was again a sell out.
Last month ‘An Ode to Arthur’ welcomed more than 200 audience members for a special performance in which Claybody Theatre joined a host of local organisations led by the New Vic Theatre, in a Heritage Lottery funded programme of activities and events celebrating 100 years since the birth of local artist, poet, playwright and teacher, Arthur Berry.
And…in the coming weeks news of the company’s first ever full Christmas show for 2025 will be announced.
Deborah added: “We are really looking forward to opening the doors to our very first, full, Christmas show, and plans are very much underway.
“Plus, we have some really exciting things planned for 2026 and we can’t wait to welcome more people to The Dipping House.”
