The Questors in Race Against Time to Fix the Roof

Fundraiser needs to hit £50,000 to cover costs of emergency repair

Umbrellas needed indoors in parts of The Questors Theatre

June 10, 2026

The Questors Theatre, based on Mattock Lane, is aiming to raise £50,000 through a Crowdfunder campaign, with the total set to be doubled to £100,000 thanks to the support of an anonymous donor. The theatre says the repairs cannot be delayed, with work needed this summer to address worsening conditions across the site.

While the roof above the 350-seat Judi Dench Playhouse was replaced in 2022 following community support, other parts of the building—now approaching 70 years old—are in need of urgent attention. Heavy rainfall has already led to serious leaks, raising concerns about safety and the long-term usability of the venue.

As a registered charity, the theatre does not receive council funding and relies heavily on donations and community backing. The pledge from the unnamed benefactor means every contribution made through the campaign will effectively be doubled, provided the target is reached in time.

At the time of writing, over 200 people have donated to the appeal bringing in a total of £37,000. The crowdfunder has another 58 days to run.

Organisers say the theatre plays a crucial role in the borough’s cultural life, hosting a wide range of performances and activities while supporting local groups and residents. Alongside its own programme of productions, the venue provides space for music therapy, dance classes, choirs, yoga sessions and parent-and-baby groups, helping to tackle isolation and promote wellbeing. It also hosts visiting professional productions, school performances and community events, including the Borough of Ealing Art Trail and the Ealing Book Festival.

The theatre is run by more than 1,000 members and stages at least 18 productions each year, as well as operating one of the country’s largest youth theatres with over 450 young participants attending weekly sessions. Organisers say the building is not only a performance venue but a place for learning, creativity and community participation.

The campaign has already attracted backing from prominent figures in the acting world, including the theatre’s president, Dame Judi Dench, who has supported the organisation for decades. She said the theatre is “hugely important” to its members, young people and the wider community, and urged supporters to contribute to help secure its future.

Vice-president Amanda Redman also endorsed the appeal, describing the venue as an “invaluable community and cultural asset” and highlighting its role in providing opportunities for young people to engage in theatre.

Donate to the fundraiser here.