About Us
Our Mission
As a registered charity and company limited by guarantee, The Witham thrives on community support. Governed by a dedicated board of trustees, we provide a venue for theatre, music, art, and social events. Our facilities include an architecturally award-winning café bar, a fully-renovated Victorian music hall, and a Georgian building that once served as a Dispensary and Mechanics’ Institute. This rich history enhances the charm and appeal of our centre.
The Witham is committed to facilitating social change:
- Providing creative, relevant, entertaining, and potentially transformative cultural experiences for artists, audiences, and guests.
- Cultivating an inclusive environment.
- Offering classes and workshops to promote lifelong learning and well-being.
- Championing sustainability and self-sufficiency through conscientious resource management and fundraising.
- Maximising value derived from employment and volunteering opportunities.
Our Heritage
- A Rich History: The Witham’s historic building complex includes a Victorian music hall and a Georgian building that once served as a Dispensary and Mechanics’ Institute.
- Preservation Efforts: We are committed to the care and preservation of these heritage buildings, ensuring they remain vibrant and accessible for future generations.
- Celebrating the Past: Through exhibitions, events, and educational initiatives, we enrich our understanding of the past and inspire future generations.
Our Vision
The Witham Ltd is recognised as a valued, accessible community asset that enables meaningful social change through its thriving Arts Centre in the heart of Barnard Castle.
Our Values
- Resilience and Growth: Facing challenges head-on, The Witham employs strategic planning, partnerships, and innovation to secure its future and set arts engagement standards. We are committed to continuous development and expansion. By fostering an ambitious environment of learning and innovation, we aim to cultivate new talents.
- Responsiveness: Interacting with a diverse array of individuals, The Witham actively listens, responds, and adapts, ensuring inclusivity and expanding its audience. Accessibility is prioritised, creating a welcoming environment for all.
- Enthusiasm: We believe in empowering individuals, inspiring creativity, and fostering an environment of enjoyment and fun. Driven by passion, The Witham has something for everyone and shares widely through programming, partnerships, and empowering individuals to engage and have fun with the arts.
- Creativity: Nurturing and celebrating creativity inspires artistic excellence, providing opportunities for exploration and collaboration with others. By fostering an ambitious environment of learning and innovation, we aim to cultivate new talents and engage more people with the arts at all levels.
- Heritage Preservation: By preserving and celebrating our heritage, we enrich our understanding of the past and inspire future generations. Through exhibitions, events, and educational initiatives, we ensure that our cultural heritage remains vibrant and accessible to all.