Basement theatre for “emerging and unsupported artists” to open

Porter’s Cardiff is set to open a theatre in March

A city centre bar is set to open a small theatre next month that will provide a home to “new, emerging and unsupported artists”.

Porter’s Cardiff, which is now based on Barrack Lane, will open a 60-seat pub theatre in its basement on March 1. 

The bar relocated from Harlech Court in 2024 where it held theatre performances in its spaced called ‘The Other Room’.

Local creators and touring shows from across the UK will feature at the new venue.

Dan Porter, director of Porter's Cardiff, said: ‘The need to relocate forced us to assess who we were, who and what we were for, and how we could best serve the talent and audiences of Cardiff. 

“We are convinced that what we are offering is what is wanted and needed, especially now. We want to remain committed to new, emerging and unsupported artists. We are excited by what we think we can achieve here and, most importantly, by what we can help others to achieve here.”

The theatre will be run by Dan and local producers Alice Rush and Frankie-Rose Taylor with support coming from Stage Sound Services and Cardiff Council.

Cardiff Council Cabinet Member for Culture, Parks and Events, Cllr Jennifer Burke, said: "We want Cardiff to be a city where creativity thrives. The opportunities Porter's offer to local talent were a key reason the Council provided support during its move to Barrack Lane.

“Now, I'm delighted we have also been able to support the opening of its new fringe theatre, ensuring even more new and emerging artists in the city have access to opportunities to grow and develop their craft."

Along with Welsh Government funding, the council also helped the venue move to Barrack Lane last year.