Cranleigh Arts – The Book!
CRANLEIGH ARTS: 50 YEARS AT THE HEART OF THE COMMUNITY records and celebrates the evolution of Cranleigh’s arts centre from its creation in 1974 by a group of local societies needing more space, into today’s successful community arts centre that is valued by all. It has not been an easy journey but it emerged from each crisis stronger and better, dedicated “to enrich, entertain and inspire” the people of Cranleigh. Set against local and national economic and arts trends, this book is testimony to the hundreds of volunteers who have shared the vision and sustained it for the last fifty years.
Written by Clive Wouters the book (priced £20) is now available at our box office with all proceeds going to Cranleigh Arts. You can also order it online and have it delivered to your door for £25 by clicking here.
Where it all began
Formerly the local village school (1847 – 1966), our building is steeped in history and something of a landmark on Cranleigh’s high street.
The organisation was founded in 1978 when a number of local community groups – including The Photographic Society, The Film Society, The Arts Society, Cranleigh Players, Adult Education and a local pottery group – came together to lease the disused Victorian school building from Waverley Borough Council. Their founding principle “to enrich, entertain and inspire” remains our mission today.
Under the Chairmanship of Jack Wagg, plans were drawn up to develop and extend the premises. This was expedited by Catherine Pike in the ’90s, culminating in major work in 1997/8 with the aid of Lottery money and other grants. Our multi-purpose auditorium was added to the premises and the rest of the building stylishly refurbished. Over the last twenty years, we have continued to enhance the facilities for our visitors and maintain our heritage building for the community.
Cranleigh Arts is a registered charity (no. 284186) and a company limited by guarantee. It is governed by a board of Trustees appointed by Members who represent the local community. Waverley Borough Council and Cranleigh Parish Council are also involved as observers at Board level. Originally run by volunteers, Cranleigh Arts still only employs a very small team of staff with many operations still undertaken by members of the local community. Volunteers play a vital role within the arts centre and are fundamental to our success and sustainability.
To find out more and get involved, volunteer with us.