We Are 25
Open: 19 August 2024 – October 2025
On 19 August 2024, Theatre by the Lake proudly celebrated its 25th anniversary, a milestone that reflects our deep-rooted connection to Cumbria and the vibrant community that has supported us throughout the years. To mark this occasion, we have curated a special photo exhibition that honours our past, embraces our present, and looks ahead to the future.
At the heart of this exhibition is the people – the artists, audiences, staff, volunteers and local communities who make Theatre by the Lake what it is. Featuring 25 striking portraits, this collection represents the diverse nature of our impact on local communities and the theatre industry
A special moment in our exhibition acknowledges the unwavering dedication of our staff. Representing all of our colleagues, past and present, and their incredible contributions is our longstanding Customer Experience Manager, who has been part of the TBTL family since the very beginning.
Each portrait tells a unique tale of creativity, passion, and the transformative power of the arts in Keswick and across Cumbria. Whether they have been involved for decades or just a short time, each individual represents a different thread in the fabric of our theatre’s legacy.
In addition to the portraits, we invite you to step into our history with a dedicated floor showcasing set pieces, props, costumes, and other treasures from some of our most memorable productions. Curated by Cumbrian designer Louie Whitemore, this collection brings to life the stories that have captivated our audiences over the years and serves as a testament to the talent and craftsmanship that define Theatre by the Lake.
Whether you have been with us from the start or are just discovering Theatre by the Lake, we thank you for being part of our story and for making this theatre a true home for the arts in Cumbria and beyond.
Liz Stevenson and Simon Stephens, Joint CEOs of Theatre by the Lake, said: “Theatre by the Lake is an inspirational space in an extraordinary place, and the sense of community ownership and connection to the theatre is super strong. It was willed into existence by the community 25 years ago who had taken ‘The Blue Box’ to their hearts and embraced theatre in a small town. We wanted to tell the human story of Theatre by the Lake and its intangible heritage through 25 personal connections – one for each birthday year – and spotlight the theatre’s continuing impact on its community and the sector.”
Find the portraits in our Circle Gallery, and the shows in our Mezzanine Gallery.
Happy birthday to theatre in Keswick!
Audio Description by Anne Hornsby
