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New Accessible Space Opens in Tandridge Surrey in time for summer drama sessions for SEND
Head2Head Sensory Theatre proudly marked the official opening of the newly renovated Barn Hub with a ribbon-cutting ceremony carried out by Mr. Michael More-Molyneux, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant. Speeches were made by Councillors Saj Hussain, Denise Turner-Stewart (Chair and Deputy Leader of Surrey CC) and Councillor Sue Farr, Chair of Tandridge DC.
Founder Anni Rhodes-Steere expressed her heartfelt thanks to all who supported the transformation of the Barn Hub, acknowledging the invaluable contributions from the Rural England Prosperity Fund, Tandridge District Council, and Your Fund Surrey.
“We never gave up on our dream to create a community space where all are welcome,” said Anni Rhodes-Steere, “but it wouldn’t have been possible without the wonderful support we have received over the past three years."
Surrey County Council deputy leader and Cabinet Member for Customer and Communities Denise Turner-Stewart said: "We are delighted that Head2Head Sensory Theatre were successful in their application to Your Fund Surrey's Large Community Projects Fund for a grant of £91,225.
By renovating Drewshearne Barn in Tandridge, Head2Head, under the warm and loving guidance of Anni and her dedicated team, have developed an accessible and energy-efficient centre, providing a welcoming space where a wide range of residents within this rural community can connect, learn, and thrive for years to come. This vital funding will directly support many individuals and various groups, including the elderly, young people with Additional Needs, People with Autism, and numerous others. Furthermore, this renovation will significantly increase volunteering opportunities, and as we know, these dedicated volunteers are absolutely vital to the continued success of the Head2Head charity. This expansion will also allow Head2Head to broaden their reach and work with new groups across Surrey and beyond.
This project embodies the very spirit of Your Fund Surrey – empowering local organisations to make a tangible and positive difference in their communities. I am looking forward to seeing the profound and positive impact this renovation will have on the lives of so many."
In attendance were Trustees of the William Allen Young CT, St Faith’s Trust and Head2Head Sensory Theatre, Head2Head Ambassador, Georgia De Gidlow (BBC TV series, ‘A Kind of Spark’).
Guests enjoyed home-baked treats and refreshments, music by pianist Sue Cope and the opportunity to explore the new venue’s Costume Department, Sensory and Hygiene Rooms and its ‘Magic Table’, an interactive projection system.
Established in 2006, Head2Head Sensory Theatre is a small, inclusive charity offering multi-sensory performances and experiences for children and young people with disabilities and their families. The charity also works with schools to deliver accessible workshops and productions.
Originally built in the 1950s as a milking parlour, the Barn Hub has undergone extensive renovations to become a fully accessible community space. The venue now includes a spacious, multi-use studio, café and kitchen area, a fully equipped Changing Places toilet, a dedicated Sensory Room, and on-site parking.
In addition to hosting rehearsals, filming, and sensory theatre productions, the Barn Hub now supports the broader community.
Current offerings include:
-A weekly Memory Café for elderly residents, those living with dementia, and their carers
-Drumming and drama workshops for adults with special educational needs
-A monthly "pub night" for local residents
-Plans for cooking clubs, craft workshops, and more community-led events
The space is also available for private hire, with successful bookings for parties and celebrations already underway. With an accessible stage platform, The venue is ideal for live performances plus, wellbeing classes, group meetings, and social events.
The newly launched Barn Hub is already making a meaningful difference to the lives of its primary beneficiaries – children with disabilities and adults with dementia – by offering a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment.
For more information contact reception@h2hsensorytheatre.com or visit https://h2hsensorytheatre.com