About Curve

Curve is a spectacular state-of-the-art theatre based in the heart of Leicester’s vibrant Cultural Quarter.

Over 750,000 people a year engage with Curve through performances and projects at our home in Leicester, across the UK and internationally. Under the leadership of Chief Executive Chris Stafford and Artistic Director Nikolai Foster, Curve has developed a reputation for producing, programming and touring a bold and diverse programme of musicals, plays, new work, dance and opera. All of this is presented alongside a dynamic mix of community engagement, artist development and learning programmes, which firmly places audiences, artists and communities at the heart of everything we do.

We are a registered charity (number 230708) and this supports our work with people of all ages and backgrounds, enabling them to access, participate in and learn from the arts, nurturing new and emerging talent and creating outstanding, award-winning theatrical experiences.

Opened in 2008 by Her Majesty The Queen, our award-winning building, designed by acclaimed architect Rafael Viñoly, offers a completely unique visitor experience.

Unlike any other theatre in the UK, we have no traditional backstage area. Audiences can enjoy the full theatre making process, peek behind the scenes and maybe even spot an actor or two dashing from the stage to their dressing room or enjoying a coffee in our Café. Our curved façade is made from 1,192 tonnes of steel and 46000m² of glass.

To be recognised as a theatre of national and international significance.

Curve is a leading producing theatre located in the heart of Leicester’s Cultural Quarter. We are dedicated to making and programming world class performances for everyone who lives, works and learns in our unique city and beyond.

Curve is one of the UK’s leading producing theatres and our productions have achieved widespread critical acclaim, attracting audiences from across the UK and beyond.

Our artistic aspiration is to grow our national and international reputation for creating, commissioning and touring brand new productions. Our cutting edge facilities and technical expertise means that the world’s best producers choose us to premiere new shows and open major national tours.

Developing talent in the region is extremely important to us. In 2014, we launched our Inside Out Festival that provides a platform for local artists. We have also helped to launch the careers of performers, technicians and theatre companies through our Curve Young Company, annual Community Production and apprenticeships.

Our reputation for attracting high profile national conferences and exhibitions to Leicester also continues to grow thanks to our flexible, dynamic spaces, leading technical and hospitality facilities and a specialist in-house team.

At Curve, we recognise the vital importance of safeguarding the environment for current and future generations. We are committed to reducing our environmental impact and promoting sustainability throughout all aspects of our operations. Our goal is to inspire positive change within our organisation, the performing arts industry, and the wider community.  

To achieve this, we will focus on the following areas: 

Energy Efficiency: 

• Continuously monitor and manage energy consumption in our facilities to minimize waste and optimise efficiency. 
• Invest in energy-efficient technologies and equipment where feasible. 
• Encourage staff, visitors and artists to adopt energy-saving practices in their daily activities. 

Waste Reduction and Recycling: 

• Implement waste reduction strategies to minimise the amount of waste generated. 
• Provide clearly labelled recycling facilities and promote responsible waste sorting and disposal. 
• Collaborate with suppliers to minimise packaging and source eco-friendly materials. 

Sustainable Procurement: 

• Give preference to suppliers and vendors with strong environmental policies and practices. 
• Prioritise products and services with minimal environmental impact, such as recycled and locally sourced materials. 
• Evaluate the life cycle and environmental credentials of products before making procurement decisions. 

Green Transport: 

• Encourage the use of public transport, cycling, and carpooling among staff, artists, visitors and audience members. 
• Provide bicycle racks and public transport information to promote eco-friendly commuting. 
• Explore options for electric or low-emission vehicles for theatre-related activities. 

Water Conservation: 

• Implement water-saving measures in our facilities, such as installing efficient fixtures and monitoring water usage. 
• Raise awareness among staff and visitors about the importance of water conservation. 

Biodiversity and Green Spaces: 

• Foster biodiversity within our premises by maintaining green spaces and gardens that support local wildlife. 
• Strive to use non-toxic and eco-friendly landscaping practices. 

Awareness and Education: 

• Organise regular training sessions and workshops for staff, artists and volunteers to raise awareness about environmental issues and best practices. 
• Engage with our audiences to promote sustainable behaviours and encourage them to participate in our efforts. 

Continuous Improvement: 

• Set measurable environmental targets and regularly review our progress to identify areas for improvement. 
• Actively seek feedback from stakeholders to enhance our environmental performance. 

Collaboration and Advocacy: 

• Collaborate with industry peers, local authorities, and environmental organisations to share best practices and advocate for sustainable initiatives. 
• Support initiatives and campaigns that promote environmental protection and sustainability.