A former Maddermarket Theatre manager has revealed ambitious plans to make their new venture the best community arts hub in the city.  

Elliott Wilshier left the Maddermarket in April, having first started there during the Covid pandemic.  

An argument between The Norwich Players and the previous committee meant that he had no choice but to leave.  

Norwich Evening News: He wants to hear from performance artists from the city He wants to hear from performance artists from the city (Image: Anteros)

He spent two weeks unemployed and then began his new role as manager at Anteros Arts Foundation in Fye Bridge Street.  

Elliott said: “I was initially devastated at leaving the theatre as I had great hopes for it, but the chance to bring my passion and commitment to the artists of Norwich to another venue soon eclipsed that feeling.” 

Anteros is set in a Grade II listed building a short walk from Tombland and Norwich Cathedral.  

Norwich Evening News: Anteros also has a music room Anteros also has a music room (Image: Anteros)

Elliott said: “It’s gorgeous! And has the longest surviving timber window in Norwich.  

“It is Norwich’s best kept secret – but I don’t want it to be kept a secret anymore.”

Currently mostly used as an arts gallery, Elliott plans on widening the reach by turning it into a multi-arts building which showcases visual and performing arts of all kinds, particularly those created in the city as well as running workshops.  

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Norwich Evening News: Anteros has a courtyard which Elliott hopes to fill with performances Anteros has a courtyard which Elliott hopes to fill with performances (Image: Anteros)

He plans on getting the hub involved in all other city events, as well as making cultural friends.  

Elliott said: “We’ll be aligning ourselves with the various festivals and social movements that the city has to offer.  

Norwich Evening News: With plenty of space in the building it is hoped they can fill it with year-round performances and workshops With plenty of space in the building it is hoped they can fill it with year-round performances and workshops (Image: Anteros)

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“We want this space to be available to the community artists as well as national artists. 

“Now more than ever we need communal spaces utterly dedicated to the very idea of the arts, to nurture and protect artists and their work.  

Norwich Evening News: New manager, Elliott Wilshier plans to turn Anteros into the best community arts hub in the city New manager, Elliott Wilshier plans to turn Anteros into the best community arts hub in the city (Image: Anteros)

“The Norwich art community is crying out for more support and space and I’m here to help provide it.” 

Elliott wants to hear from all Norfolk performers and visual artists who have an idea.  

Norwich Evening News: Elliott Wilshier left the Maddermarket Theatre after a fall out with the Norwich Players Elliott Wilshier left the Maddermarket Theatre after a fall out with the Norwich Players (Image: Elliott Wilshier)