Cornwall College gives local performers the chance to win the ‘Key to The Keay’ 

Cornwall College St Austell has launched an exciting new opportunity for local performers, community groups and creatives with the introduction of the ‘Key to The Keay’ grant.

The grant will provide two individuals or organisations with the chance to stage their own one-night performance at The Keay Theatre in May 2026, complete with technical support, a consultation session with the Theatre Manager, and marketing promotion. In addition, the winners of this unique prize will also be able to keep 100% of the profits made from the performance, enabling them fund further creative projects in the future.

As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting the local community and celebrating the arts, the College is inviting applications from a broad range of performers. Eligible groups include youth and school productions, charities, local theatre companies, individual performers and organisations championing Cornish culture or education.

The Keay Theatre itself offers an impressive setting for any performance, with seating for up to 224 people. The space features full lighting rigs, a high-spec sound system and projection facilities. Performers will also have access to dedicated dressing rooms.

Laetitia Mayne, Assistant Principal – Head of Cornwall College St Austell, said: “We’re incredibly proud to offer this opportunity to the community. The Keay Theatre has long been a space for creativity and collaboration, and we’re excited to open its doors to new voices and projects that deserve to be seen.”

The Key to The Keay grant reflects Cornwall College’s commitment to making the arts more accessible and enriching the region’s cultural landscape by offering a professional platform to those who may not otherwise have the opportunity. This new initiative is designed to give emerging or underrepresented voices a chance to shine on one of Cornwall’s iconic theatre stages

The Keay Theatre is open to the public year-round and hosts a variety of professional and student-led performances. Stand-out shows have included performance from Mark Steel, Legally Blonde and Company B. For more information on The Keay, and all the latest performances, click HERE