2026 archive: This article announced a public event on 12 March 2026. See Buxton Opera House for current information.

Photo: David John King Photography.

In February 2026, High Peak Borough Council and High Peak Theatre Trust announced a public event about a project exploring the future development of Buxton Opera House.

The iconic Frank Matcham theatre opened in June 1903 and hosts hundreds of events each year aimed at audiences of all interests and ages.

The council and Trust had secured funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund to explore the possibility of restoring the building.

The March 2026 public event

The free event was advertised for Thursday 12 March 2026, from 6pm to 8pm, at the Pavilion Arts Centre. The council said it would give people a chance to learn about the project, ask questions and share their views.

Council Leader, Councillor Anthony Mckeown, said: “The Opera House is one of the High Peak’s most well-known and loved buildings and has been at the heart of local, regional and national cultural life for over a hundred years.

“The work we’re doing now is aimed at both safeguarding the building and ensuring it remains fit-for-purpose along with enhancing it for the future. So it’s really important that we hear from a wide range of people and listen to their thoughts, experiences and ideas to help shape future investment and development plans.

“We’re inviting people to join us in March to find out more about what we’re doing and to share their views. It’s free to attend – just register online via the Opera House website – and we look forward to seeing you next month.”