Award-winning Lytham Theatre set to become art gallery

Female-identifying artists are invited to transform one of the Fylde's most beloved theatres into a week-long celebration of creativity, identity, and artistic expression.

The Lowther Pavilion Theatre & Gardens in Lytham St Annes, is delighted to announce that submissions are now open for its inaugural The Lowther Open: Women in Art 2027 exhibition. This new initiative will see the historic theatre transform its venues into a vibrant and inclusive gallery space for one week starting Monday 28 July 2027.

Rather than closing its doors during the annual Lytham Festival, the venue will reimagine its public spaces from traditional theatre spaces into exhibition galleries, creating a unique opportunity for audiences to experience art in a unique venue from a range of artists at different stages in their careers.

The exhibition has been created to celebrate and showcase the work of female-identifying artists across disciplines including drawing, painting, sculpture, print, photography, video, sound, textile, illustration, sketchbooks and work-in-progress. The Lowther Open: Women in Art 2027 will encourage conversations around creativity, identity, representation and community.

Tim Lince, Lowther’s CEO/Artistic Director, said: "As a theatre, we’re used to telling stories on stage, but this exhibition not only allows audiences to experience of venues in a completely new light, but it also allows us to celebrate other artforms.”

“We’re excited to launch this inaugural exhibition, which will see us create a platform for female-identifying artists and demonstrate how a theatre can become a creative space in entirely new ways."

Artists working in painting, photography, sculpture, printmaking, mixed media, textiles and other visual art forms are encouraged to apply. Emerging and established artists are equally welcome.

Throughout the exhibition week, visitors will be able to explore artwork throughout the venue while continuing to enjoy the theatre's regular programme, creating a dynamic cultural experience that brings together visual arts and live performance under one roof.

The Lowther Open: Women in Art 2027 exhibition reflects the Lowther Pavilion Theatre & Garden’s commitment to championing diverse voices and broadening opportunities for artists and audiences alike.

Applications are now open, with selected artists' work to be displayed during the exhibition in July 2027.

How to Apply

Artists can find full submission details and application information at: lowtherpavilion.co.uk/art

Submission Deadline: 30 April 2027.

Exhibition Dates: Monday 28 June – Sunday 4 July 2027.

For further information, please contact the venue’s Box Office team (Monday – Sunday 10am – 4pm) on 01253 794221 or by emailing boxoffice@lowtherpavilion.co.uk