Bridgwater Arts Centre

Who we are

Bridgwater Arts Centre first opened its doors in 1946, the first in the UK to do so with Arts Council support. Over the years the centre has hosted an array of events and activities: from the prestigious International Conference of Modern Architecture in 1947, acting as a favourite venue for jazz and blues legend George Melly, and today welcoming comedians such as James Acaster, Robin Ince, and many more. 

Having joined Bridgwater Arts Centre as CEO + Artistic Director in June of this year Adam Clarke has been overwhelmed by the organisations history, and discovering its connection with the local community. Born in Somerset himself, it has been with a great sense of pride that he finds himself working to provide a new and exciting arts experience for the county; guiding the centre toward a new and exciting chapter, focused upon emphasising community engagement, well-being, and attracting even higher profile acts to both Bridgwater and the region. He wants to establish the centre as one that meaningfully serves the varied communities of Bridgwater and the wider district; showcase just how impactful the arts can be to people’s lives, and establish projects and initiatives that have a lasting positive legacy for the town and county. 

Running any arts organisation in the current economic climate is a challenge; arts funding is increasingly competitive, and the value of art questioned. To make BAC the centre we know it can be we are working hard to establish a business infrastructure that will make the centre increasingly financially resilient and self-sustaining; including planning for renovations of the building so that we can offer studios to local artists, creatives and small businesses. Of course BAC relies heavily upon grant funding and private financial donations, and now more than ever the centre requires increased financial support to realise its new community focused direction and inspired trustees.