History
The ancient mill of Bagnor was converted into a theatre in the early 1960’s. It retains many of its original architectural features such as the waterwheel, wooden beams and corn chutes, which protrude through the lighting arrays. Although housed in a 200 year old building, the theatre uses state of the art technology.
The first short professional season opened in 1967. Jill Fraser was a co-owner of the theatre from 1981 until her death in 2006. Her vision has led the Watermill to build an excellent reputation worldwide. Some of the most famous actors who began their careers at the Watermill include Bill Nighy, Sean Bean and David Suchet. Notable premieres under Jill's administration were works by Vivian Ellis, award-winners George Stiles, Anthony Drewe, and The Great Big Radio Show! by Philip Glassborow.
The theatre was put up for sale by the Sargant family 2008. A development board was established, chaired by Ralph Bernard, and was successful in raising funds to purchase the building and grounds. The theatre is now run by a board of trustees and is managed by artistic and excutive director Hedda Beeby since 2007.
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