A GRADE II listed venue in the heart of Braintree is hoping to receive a cash injection from a supermarket giant.

The historic theatre The Institute, in Bocking End, Braintree, is hoping to receive votes to help earn a grant of up to £1,500 from Tesco’s Stronger Starts scheme.

Its scheme which helps provide vital funding to community projects which Tesco customers then vote for the organisation or group they think should win the funding.

The Bocking Art Theatre Trust: The Institute restoration project has been one of the shortlisted groups for funding.

Jim Hollands and Lewis Codling, both aged 36, took over as the directors The Institute back in May 2023 and have overseen many major improvements to the beloved venue.

Directors - Lewis codling and Jim HollandsDirectors - Lewis codling and Jim Hollands (Image: The Institute)

Jim and Lewis said in a combined statement that if they receive the money, it will be used to continue to reinvigorate the building.

They said: “We’re delighted to have been accepted for the Tesco Stronger Starts scheme, putting the grant towards tiered seating and toilet refurbishment if successful.

“Running such an old and iconic building means we’re forever having to upkeep all areas.

“It’s our mission to make The Institute a vital part of the Essex arts and culture scene – and with the help of the Tesco Stronger Starts scheme we ultimately will.”

Not only have the duo redecorated the venue and added a new PA sound system and speakers, but they’ve also added an exciting mix of events for customers to enjoy.

Performing - an Electric Light Orchestra tribute act performing at The Institute (Image: The Institute)

Previously, the venue has hosted a warm-up show with comedian Simon Brodkin, the famous Welsh rap-group Goldie Lookin Chain, and much more.

There have also been many popular tribute acts through the doors of The Institute as well such as acts dedicated to Taylor Swift, Michael Jackson, Dire Straits, Ed Sheeran, The Rolling Stones.

You can expect The Prodigy, Adele, Elvis tribute acts and original acts such as The Jive Aces from September onwards.

Voting opens in Braintree’s town centre, Great Notley, Marks Farm and Braintree Coggeshall Tesco Express stores from October to January 2025.

Customers will be able to cast their vote for The Bocking Arts Theatre Trust using a blue token given to them at the check-out each time they shop instore.

To find out more about The Institute’s line-up, visit theinstitutebraintree.co.uk/.