Arts and culture

Arts and culture in Thurrock

Thurrock is a thriving centre for the arts.

Arts venues

The Thameside Complex in Orsett Road, Grays is a popular multi-purpose arts venue. It is home to the Thameside Theatre, Thurrock Museum and Grays Library. The complex also hosts temporary exhibitions throughout the year.

High House Production Park is home to an impressive eco-friendly workshop where sets for the Royal Opera House are built by teams of highly-skilled scenic artists, carpenters, draughtsmen, and metalworkers.

The site is also home to the Backstage Centre – a flagship national training centre for creative and cultural skills – and also Acme Studios for artists.

Organisations, clubs and societies

Across Thurrock there are many organisations, clubs and societies dedicated to visual and performing arts. Many of these are promoted by Arts Thurrock – formerly Thurrock Arts Council.

Arts Thurrock is an umbrella organisation for voluntary arts groups from all parts of Thurrock. It administers grant funding on behalf of Thurrock Council and other funders in Thurrock.

Associate membership is free and open to any group, organisation or individual. After a year as an associate member, full membership may be awarded. Constituted organisations can apply for funding.

For more information, go to Facebook: Arts Thurrock.

Annual events

Thurrock Art Trail is an annual event presenting artists and artisans across or range of venues and locations. The Thurrock Art Trail website provides event details and trail maps.