THE WORLD's smallest theatre in Great Malvern is set to re-open with a group of volunteers set to give it a new lease of life. 

Malvern Hills District Council's executive committee has handed over the Edith Walk Theatre to a newly formed group, the Theatre of Small Convenience CIC.

The unique 12-seater building was originally a Victorian toilet but in 2002 entered the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s smallest commercial theatre.

The theatre has been closed since 2017 after the founder Dennis Neale retired due to ill health and it was then leased to Warwickshire College Group until 2022.

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The new owners have revealed plans to develop a new programme which includes puppetry, spoken word, virtual reality, Christmas Grotto, and workshops.

Before the programme is launched, restoration and improvements will need to be made to the building.

Earlier this year, the council invited expressions of interest to take over to take over Edith Walk Theatre, better known as the Theatre of Small Convenience.

It is hoped the theatre will now be transformed into a sustainable community venue.

Dr Jan Birtle, who is part of the new group running the venue, said: “This will be fantastic for those living in Malvern and surrounding areas and will also draw visitors to the area.

"We are inspired by the opportunity to develop a high-quality contemporary arts programme with a strong ethos of collaboration and community participation.

“The small size of the theatre will be welcome to some and will complement other theatres in the area.

"Theatre, arts and community connection are great for people’s health and wellbeing, and we are inspired by the benefits that could take off”.

Former owner Dennis Neale was well known for putting on an array of shows and puppetry performances, including ‘The Tale from the Snowcake Man’.

He added: “The group look very determined to bring the theatre back together and I really want to support them.

"I loved my short shows and puppetry, and I put eight or nine shows for the community, which became quite popular.

"I feel like that’s what kept the theatre going and I think there’s room in Malvern for a smaller venue for people to enjoy”.