Redgrave Theatre to honour Trevor Howard with commemorative plaque and launch of youth theatre

As the Redgrave Theatre approaches its 60th anniversary in 2026, we are proud to mark this milestone with a series of exciting initiatives that both honour our rich heritage and look to the future. Alongside a commemorative plaque unveiling for acclaimed Actor and Old Cliftonian Trevor Howard, we are delighted to announce the launch of the Redgrave Youth Theatre, a new programme designed to nurture the next generation of performers.

The Clifton and Hotwells Improvement Society will host a special unveiling ceremony of a commemorative plaque honouring acclaimed Actor and Old Cliftonian, Trevor Howard (DH 1932). After studying at RADA (Royal Academy of Dramatic Art), Trevor became one of Britain’s most distinguished actors of his generation. He passed away in 1988, leaving a lasting legacy in the performing arts.

Jeremy Pickles, Head of Alumni and Community at Clifton College, said: "It is with great pride that we unveil this plaque to honour Trevor Howard, one of our most distinguished Old Cliftonians. His story is a powerful reminder that the path to success isn’t always a straight one; he found fame as one of the world's most distinguished actors despite not having participated much in drama during his school years. I hope that this plaque will serve as an inspiration to our current pupils that success within the performing arts is within their reach. Furthermore, we are deeply grateful for Trevor's generous support as a benefactor of the College's drama programme, which will continue his legacy for years to come."

A green plaque will be placed on the Redgrave Theatre in his name, with the unveiling conducted by the Lord-Lieutenant of Bristol, Peaches Golding on Saturday 13th September 2025. Owen Franklin, Director of the Bristol Film Festival, will speak at the unveiling both as an Old Cliftonian and an avid fan of Trevor Howard’s work.

Launch of the Redgrave Youth Theatre - We are delighted to announce that the Redgrave Youth Theatre will be launching in January 2026!
Designed for ages 7-14, our new youth theatre will offer a fun, supportive space where young people can build confidence, explore their creativity and develop performance skills under the guidance of experienced industry professionals.

Priority booking will open first to those who registered their interest, before further places are released to the general public very soon. Keep an eye on this page for further information.

“As the Redgrave steps into a new era, having a youth theatre marks a significant step towards becoming a theatre that is a true space for its community. This venue has long been a great working and learning environment, and we are delighted to be opening our doors to our youngest creative minds so they can come and fall in love with the theatre.” - Sue Ellicott, Theatre Manager

Join us as we celebrate six decades of performance, creativity and community at the Redgrave Theatre. Don’t forget to follow us on social media @RedgraveTheatre so you don’t miss any of the latest initiatives, events and shows marketing our 60th anniversary in 2026.