Tributes paid after founder of Wolverhampton's Arena Theatre dies
The founder of a Wolverhampton theatre, who helped transform a disused gym into what became a £2 million arts venue, has died aged 91.
Former drama lecturer Philip Tilstone started the Arena Theatre in Wolverhampton in 1976 and continued to keep in touch with the staff in his retirement.
Just two years ago he attended the Wulfruna Street venue’s 40th birthday celebrations.
In 1967 Mr Tilstone became the first lecturer in drama at the University of Wolverhampton, then Wolverhampton Polytechnic, with the aim of bringing performance arts to the wider community as well as his students.
Kevin O’Sullivan, manager of the Arena from 1985 to 2013, and a close friend, said: “Although he didn’t play a part in the refurbished Arena as it is today, it wouldn’t have happened without him.
“Phil’s belief in encouraging local community groups to share the theatre and put on their own shows was one of the main reasons we got the National Lottery grant to turn the Arena into what it is today. That was his legacy.”
The cramped former gym in the basement of the polytechnic underwent a total transformation in 1998-9, closing for 18 months for a building programme which provided a 150-seat theatre, well-equipped dressing rooms, bar, foyer and offices, easier access and vastly improved facilities, including the Tilstone Studio.
As a result it was able to expand its programme of performances and now hosts more than 200 public shows a year, in addition to other special events.
As well as being a top resource for surrounding colleges and schools, local drama groups and arts organisations, the Arena has also became a hotspot for prestigious touring companies, including the Royal Shakespeare Company, Kneehigh Theatre and Hull Truck Theatre.
Mr Tilstone, who lived in Finchfield, Wolverhampton, leaves wife Tina, three children and grandchildren.
He died following a short illness.
