11/10/2024
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Business Spotlights / Community
Calder Bookshop and Theatre: A Creative Space in Waterloo
In 2000, Annabelle and Lewis joined John Calder’s theatre company, known for publishing Samuel Beckett. When Calder retired, Annabelle and Lewis took the reins, enhancing the venue to focus on theatre. “The bookshop now specialised in theatre with the addition of our favourite subjects: philosophy, psychology and politics,” they explain. “We improved the space making it more suitable for staging experimental works, political plays, mostly Latin American.”
But Calder is more than just a bookshop. It features a small theatre and a rehearsal space with a piano in the basement, creating a lively spot for actors, musicians, and dancers. Their theatre frequently holds performances that are well-supported by the local community. “This year, we were a venue for the Lambeth Fringe Festival which drew audiences from across the area,” they proudly share.
The COVID-19 lockdown posed challenges, but the space revived once restrictions eased. “Once everything opened, people came back. I think the lockdown encouraged people to read more… They have particular interest in the older, out-of-print volumes about theatre,” says Annabelle. The theatre’s rehearsal space also saw increased bookings. “A smaller theatre possibly felt safer than the larger commercial theatres after lockdown.” And of course, there’s Puppy, “our beautiful black and white cat, well-known to all the locals.”
The Calder Bookshop underwent a further transformation as part of WeAreWaterloo’s Redesign Shopfront Improvement Grant Scheme. This initiative provided the bookshop with funding for much-needed renovations. With a fresh coat of paint, new signage, and improved lighting, the bookshop was revitalised.
Looking ahead, Annabelle and Lewis are always seeking fresh projects and ideas. “We are always on the lookout for new projects, new ideas,” they note, particularly performances that reflect the current political climate. “Excitingly, we have recently opened our space to new groups and young creators.”
WeAreWaterloo are proud to support a business that offers such a welcoming space for anyone with a passion for the arts.
For more information, please visit the Calder Bookshop Website, or visit Calder Bookshop at 51 The Cut, SE1 8LF. Stay updated on events by following them on Instagram.
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