Chatham theatre faces threat from neighbouring development

Spotlites accuses developer Donard of refusing to engage with them after blocking access to car park used by patrons

Spotlites is a Chatham-based theatre that has provided acting classes, singing lessons, and dance classes for children and adults throughout Medway and Kent for nearly 30 years. Founded in 1996, the organisation has “been providing exciting theatre opportunities for kids of all ages.” As we speak to manager Kieron Riddell, Spotlies is now facing an existential threat from developers.

Spotlites operates out of a converted warehouse at the end of Chatham High Street, with chairs upcycled from a cinema in Wales. “We built a lovely space. Anyone that's been in it knows it has real charm,” notes Kieron. He started coming to Spotlites in 2004 “as a youngster,” and he freely admits it has been an important part of his life ever since. “It meant so much to me growing up that I know how much it means for the youth now, which is why it's so important to me to keep it alive and kicking.”

Spotlites Theatre in Chatham

Spotlites’ original founders moved to Scotland, and Kieron took over the running of Spotlites in 2019, about six months before covid started to become worldwide news. “It was a bit of a baptism of fire when I started,” he recalls. Along with running groups out of the theatre, they also visit schools around Kent, providing acting classes for children from the age of four. They aim to put a production on once a month, as well as run weekly drama workshops.

Since the pandemic, the theatre has faced further challenges, including one that could threaten its existence.

As is often the case, much of the issue hinges on a car park.