Our Black, African & Caribbean Ambassador programme, lead by Tonia Daley-Campbell has brought about monumental change both on stage and off and our newly published Impact Report celebrates over four years of work to create real, lasting change in how we engage with our communities and how they engage with us.

For generations, the magic of theatre, its stories, its spotlight, its sense of wonder, has captivated audiences across the world. But for many in the Black, African and Caribbean communities, that magic often felt just out of reach. Not because of a lack of interest, talent or culture, but because of a lack of invitation. A lack of reflection. A lack of representation.

Theatre has long been a mirror to society; a place where we reflect on who we are, where we’ve come from, and where we’re going. But for that mirror to show the full picture, every story must be visible. Every voice must be heard.

Historically, mainstream arts and cultural institutions, including theatres, have not always felt like welcoming spaces for people from marginalised communities. Whether through programming that didn’t reflect diverse lived experiences, marketing that didn’t reach the right communities, or pricing structures that excluded rather than invited. The message, whether intentional or not, was clear; “This space is not for you”.

That is why audience development work is not just important, it is essential.

This report is not just about statistics or ticket sales. It’s about people. It’s about shifting the narrative. It’s about ensuring that the next generation grows up knowing that Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is their space too; a place for their stories to be told, their laughter to be heard, their hearts to be felt and their cultures to be celebrated.

The report, written by Pamilerin Beckley, can be read here.