Troubadour Theatres reveals plans for ‘exciting temporary theatre’ in Ealing

Troubadour Theatres has proposed the construction of a temporary 1,200-seat venue in Walpole Park.

The proposed venue, named Troubadour Ealing Broadway Theatre, will launch in April 2027 for a three-year period, following a three-month build phase starting in January 2027. De-rigging will take three months following the conclusion of the lease in March 2030.

Under the agreement, Troubadour Theatres Ltd will fully fund, develop, and operate the structure while paying a fixed lease fee directly to the local authority. Proposals state the council, who are set to make their decision next Wednesday, would invest this fresh income directly into the provision and improvement of parks and open spaces right across the borough, including areas that faced recent funding cuts.

Beyond direct venue revenue, the project promises a substantial boost to the local economy, driving footfall and visitor spending across Ealing Broadway and West Ealing town centres to support local high streets. Former projects by Troubadour, such as their venue in King’s Cross, delivered £17.5 million to the surrounding local area.

The venue will also create more than 40 full-time equivalent local jobs across management, front-of-house, and stage roles, alongside incentive schemes to encourage theatergoers to dine at local businesses.

Troubadour said in a statement given to WhatsOnStage: “Troubadour Theatres is working with Ealing Council to develop an exciting temporary theatre structure in Walpole Park and will be applying for planning permission in due course. Subject to the planning process, the venue would provide a new cultural attraction for the borough, supporting the local economy and creating job opportunities while bringing world-class theatre and family-friendly productions to Ealing.

“Ealing Council is making this decision through its proper governance process. As part of this, the Council will consult with residents and we look forward to working with them to build excitement for this brand-new venue.”

The venue itself would host over eight performances a week inside a fully accessible, climate-controlled space, supported by a box office, lobby bar, merchandise shop, and local food vendors. Ealing Summer Festival events previously held in Walpole Park will be relocated across the borough to broaden access.

The proposal will serve as a proof-of-concept for a potential permanent venue, proving the viability of local cultural investment. The council will vote on an in-principle agreement at its meeting on 9 September 2026.

Troubadour have a flurry of other venues being built – with two major venues set to sit next to the Thames in Greenwich, opening next year.