Support The Barn
OVO is on a mission to transform and revive the historic St Germain’s Barn into a vibrant new performance venue to develop and champion emerging theatre talent.
Located in historic Verulamium Park, on the site of the ancient Roman city, the Barn has long been in disrepair and is listed on Historic England’s ‘At Risk’ Register. First mentioned in 1649, the building has deep theatrical roots, having been bought by Commodore Henry Killigrew, whose father and uncle were both playwrights and theatre producers in the time of Charles II.
The new theatre will:
Produce a year round performance programme of bold, imaginative and surprising new versions of classic plays and stories.
Host a new permanent repertory company, bringing together established artists and early career performers, creatives, and crew, especially those from under-represented backgrounds.
Provide a bar and café along with spaces for meetings and events.
Photo credit: Simon Knight Architects
Four of the UK’s most highly acclaimed actors are supporting the creation of the new theatre as Patrons
Brian Cox CBE, Dame Joanna Lumley, Ralph Fiennes and Zoë Wanamaker CBE are the proud new patrons of our exciting venture supporting emerging actors, artists and technicians from a diverse range of backgrounds to become the stars of tomorrow.
Brian Cox is particularly keen to see young people from working class backgrounds accessing the industry. He said:
“When I was 14 years old an opportunity opened up for me at Dundee Rep. I left school, earned £4 a week and started to learn my trade. This was my first experience of live theatre – until then it was seen as a middle-class pursuit. It was the greatest apprenticeship I could have wished for and laid the foundations for the career I have had. The decline of the repertory system has denied many young people from working class backgrounds the opportunity of a career in theatre. I’m delighted to support OVO’s new initiative to widen the talent pool and increase the diversity of our industry.”
Joanna Lumley is pleased to be able to support aspiring actors who may wish to enter the industry through less conventional routes:
“I am thrilled to be involved in this exciting project which will bring encouragement to so many young actors. As someone who had no formal acting training, I wholly encourage positive projects like this that identify young, up-and-coming talent from all kinds of backgrounds.”
Zoë Wanamaker is delighted to be involved as she continues her father’s legacy at the Globe Theatre in supporting the arts through a connection with historic buildings:
“I passionately believe in opportunity for all. Not only do new actors and creatives benefit from schemes like OVO’s barn theatre, but the impact on society is huge too.”
In his early career, Ralph Fiennes’ agent encouraged him to hone his craft in regional theatres rather than pursuing immediate television roles, which he believes gave him a long-term perspective on artistic development. He said:
“I know the importance of an exceptional grassroots training experience. There is a sense of wonder and anticipation that comes with mixing the old and the new. The preservation of the 17th century barn together with the eager energy of budding new actors will be the beginning of something fabulous. I am extremely proud to be a part of it.”
The Barn conversion will create a beautiful, atmospheric performance space, allowing for a variety of performance layouts seating up to 150 whilst showcasing the stunning original timber structure. It will breathe new life into the building, establishing it as a distinctive cultural venue in the heart of St Albans, creating work of national significance.
Over the past year we have raised £908,000, including: nearly £350,000 of equity investment from over 70 investors; a £300,000 grant from the government’s Community Ownership Fund; a £250,000 loan agreed in principle with the Architectural Heritage Fund; further donations of over £10,000 (including from comedy duo Victor and Albert). And we’re aiming to get the total over £1 million this Summer.
Our inaugural repertory company is already in rehearsals for the forthcoming summer season at the Roman Theatre of St Albans, and the first performances in the Barn are scheduled for Autumn 2026.
Join an in-person tour
We will be hosting monthly tours of St Germain’s Barn with OVO Artistic Director, Adam Nichols, and Chairman, Kiffer Weisselberg in 2026.
Upcoming tour dates are at 6pm on Thursday 18th June, Monday 13th July and Thursday 27th August. Book your place here.
How Can You Help?
To bring this project to life, we need your support. While we have secured initial funding, there’s still work to be done – and we would love to reach our next target. Whether you’re a theatre lover, a history enthusiast, or a supporter of the arts, your contribution will help us create a thriving cultural landmark in St Albans.
Ways to Support:
Please Donate: We welcome all donations (small one-off donations, monthly or annual payments, or larger investments).
For more information about OVO investment opportunities, please email us for an investor pack: holly@ovo.org.uk
Stay Engaged: Sign up to our newsletter and follow us on social media to stay-up-to-date on our progress and be the first to know about upcoming performances and fundraising events.
Spread the Word: Share our vision with friends, family, and fellow arts supporters.