Westminster hosts event with guitarist Brian Willoughby and singer Cathryn Craig to mark 50th anniversary of Soho Poly event space

To celebrate the heritage and potential of the space at the Soho Poly, the University called upon guitarist Brian Willoughby and Cathryn Craig to entertain the venue’s valued guests from the arts industries and key Fitzrovian community members. Guests were able to witness first-hand the vision for the Soho Poly and how this Fitzrovian asset needs support to be able to deliver crucial artistic programmes, as well as provide a unique and historical community space for the local area.

Upon arrival, guests were welcomed to the venue by the project team and were allowed time to explore the space and learn about the history of the venue. Jordan Scammell, Head of Development and Fundraising at the University of Westminster, alongside Professor Guy Osborn, Project Lead for the Soho Poly restoration project, welcomed guests and encouraged them to explore the venue and highlighted the importance of the fundraising campaign to make the space accessible.

Professor Osborn introduced Brian Willoughby and Cathryn Craig before their set, where he spoke about Brian’s involvement in the Soho Poly Ghost Gigs and his links to the University where he studied Modern Languages and later returned to the University to study on a postgraduate course. 

Throughout the event, Brian Willoughby played a full amp selection alongside his partner and singer Cathryn Craig, who performed some of their favourite songs for guests to enjoy.

Brian is an English guitarist, best known for his contribution to The Strawbs, a highly successful English folk rock group of the 60s and 70s. With The Strawbs, Brian recorded a UK Number Two best-selling single, and later with The Monks, listing another UK Top 20 single in 1979. As a solo artist, Brian has collaborated with the links of Mary Hopkins and comedy troupe Monty Python.

Talking about the event, Patricia Phipps, alumna and Soho Poly donor said: “I was delighted to attend the iconic Soho Poly 50th Anniversary event on 4 April. The Soho Poly is in the process of restoration and was one of London's most important alternative theatre venues between 1972-1990. I was very interested in talking with the people who are passionately involved in the project and to learn more of the building's history.  

“The Soho Poly will eventually create a vibrant, diverse community hub and I am very excited to donate towards the works. It is important for us to support the next generation of theatre makers and enhance access to the arts in the local community.” 

Jordan Scammell added: “What a great end to a fantastic couple of weeks of events celebrating the Soho Poly and galvanizing support for our plans to revive the space. Everyone we spoke to has a real vested interest in getting the space open to the public once again. We’ve been sat on this hidden gem for far too long. It’s time to make it accessible for all, so we can throw open the doors and share it with the public, permanently. Thanks to our donors like Patricia, who are helping to make this possible.”

To find out more about how you can support the restoration of the Soho Poly, please email [email protected] or to donate directly, visit the donation webpage.