Efforts are being stepped up to ‘Save Storyhouse’ as the fledgling Chester arts venue awaits news of government support for its industry.
The charity says its situation is becoming “steadily worse” but adds: “we’ll find a way of making sure Christmas happens in Chester, come hellish lockdown or high water.”
Storyhouse’s financial position is worsening as the region’s various lockdowns start to bite.
Despite having a successful summer of touring programmes, from the cinema and theatre producers, things are now starting to dry up.
The charity has requested over £700k from the government’s delayed Cultural Recovery Fund and says its immediate future relies heavily on receiving this support.
CEO Andrew Bentley explained that the organisation can still come through – but not without significant support.
“I’ve been so overwhelmingly proud of what we have achieved since lockdown in March.
“We were the first theatre, first library and first cinema in the UK to re-open and now we are one of only a small handful of venues to put on a Christmas show.
“Staying open when so many others are closed is a really hard position to be in, especially in this current climate, but we are in a fight for survival and this is how we fight. We are open simply to preserve jobs and to serve our community, it’s all we can do, and the least we should do.”
Andrew added: “The situation however could not be more serious for us than it is right now, with two thirds of the country’s theatres still could be out of business by Christmas.
“We need to get through this period successfully if we are to avoid that fate.”
Bosses now hope that visitors will still wish to buy tickets for Christmas, as they go full steam ahead with preparations for A Christmas Carol.
“It really is the best way to help us right now,” commented Andrew.
“The show must go on, we’ll take any lockdowns and circuit breakers in our stride and will do our best to ensure that everyone gets to see the show, so customers can buy with confidence.
“We’re making all the usual preparations for a wonderful family Christmas.”
A Christmas Carol, which is being written and directed by Storyhouse’s Artistic Director Alex Clifton, runs from 7th November until 19th January.
Audiences are limited to 180 per performance (normally 480) and are spaced out during the show which will run without an interval.
The venue is also introducing a new service for customers to order drinks from their seats as well as in advance.
Please see storyhouse.com for more info.
