Mitchell Arts Centre (MAC) is proud to announce Gaze – a two-year celebration project leading up to its 70th anniversary in 2027, supported by a £218,000 grant from The National Lottery Heritage Fund. But this isn’t just about a birthday. This is a story rooted in the dreams, ambition, and resilience of the people of Stoke-on-Trent.
The story of the Mitchell Arts Centre began in the aftermath of World War II, when communities across the country were rebuilding not only their homes, but their hope. Stoke-on-Trent rose to that challenge in its own powerful way: by building a youth centre dedicated to the memory of Reginald Mitchell, the local engineer behind the legendary Spitfire planes that helped turn the tide of the war.
The MAC wasn’t funded by government grants or wealthy donors — it was paid for by the people. Cup by cup, coin by coin. School children collected pennies. Local groups held fundraisers. It was a city-wide act of belief that if one of their own could create the Spitfire, then anything was possible for the next generation too. The result was a space “where youth may gaze towards the future with confidence,” as declared by Captain Douglas Bader at the centre’s opening.
Nearly seven decades later, that same spirit burns brighter than ever.
The MAC has grown into a cultural beacon in the heart of Stoke-on-Trent — a beloved home for amateur theatre groups, an incubator for local talent, and a vibrant hub of live performance. Its stages have welcomed everything from grassroots drama and community festivals to screenings from the National Theatre, Royal Opera House, and the Royal Ballet.
Its mission hasn’t changed. The MAC continues to nurture creativity, ambition, and community through an exciting programme of educational activities, workshops, live music, half term programmes, and inclusive events that bring people together from across the city.
Now, as the centre approaches its 70th year, it’s looking not just back — but forward — with the launch of Gaze, a colourful, creative two-year initiative that embodies the MAC’s founding promise.
What to expect from the Gaze Project:
- Clay Play Days – Half-term hands-on sessions that let young people explore creative expression through clay
- The MAC Prize for Writing – Celebrating short-form storytelling with 70-word written pieces from budding writers
- Mini MAC Birthday Bashes – A series of family-friendly theatre parties packed with performances and activities
- Creative Installations – Bold artistic displays transforming the venue, bringing colour and imagination to every corner
The Gaze project isn’t just a celebration — it’s a pledge. A promise to keep sparking dreams, championing young voices, and proving, again and again, that the power of imagination and ambition can take flight — just like Mitchell’s Spitfire.
None of this would be possible without the generous support of those who believe in the power of heritage, community and creativity.
With deepest gratitude, we thank The National Lottery Heritage Fund for their incredible investment of £218,000 towards the Gaze project. This funding is more than just a number — it’s a vote of confidence in the young dreamers of Stoke-on-Trent, in the power of local voices, and in the legacy of ambition that began with Reginald Mitchell.
Thanks to National Lottery players, the next two years will be filled with colour, creativity and connection — a true celebration of where we’ve come from, and where we’re going.
From every child who will find their voice, to every visitor who will walk through our doors inspired — thank you.
For more information, event details, and ways to get involved in the Gaze project, visit www.mitchellartscentre.co.uk
