East Riding Theatre has launched a fundraising campaign as they look to raise £20,000 to solidify its future as a valued local charity.
They say that with the likelihood of ongoing social distancing measures their income streams will be impacted.
Over the last 6 years, demands on voluntary management staff have increased alongside the theatre’s continued success.
Prior to lockdown, ERT was in the process of employing a small number of theatre staff. This was to alleviate the mounting pressure on those within voluntary senior roles.
In October of 2020, the theatre received funding through the government’s Cultural Recovery Fund. As a result of this funding, it allowed them to employ four instrumental members of staff.
The theatre says that each of the new appointments is fundamental in leading the organisation towards a resilient reopening and a stable future. The funding, however, will only support this employment until 31 March 2021.
They add that once the theatre reopens that they are anticipating social distancing will still be in place.
As a result, ERT says the income they will receive from their main revenue source, ticket sales, will be reduced by two-thirds.
Reduced Audience Numbers A Reak Threat To East Riding Theatre Income
A spokesperson for the theatre said;
“As a registered charity we expect these ongoing disruptions, alongside a reduction in workforce, will seriously affect our ability to continue our mission.”
“That mission is to bring innovative entertainment and creativity to our region. This is why we are now recognising publicly that we require additional support.”
“It is a crucial time where we as a theatre are trying to plan our future and begin to see the green grass on the horizon.”
“Admittedly, however, our ability to escape the effects of COVID19 remains dependent on ongoing support.”
“We hope that by fundraising, the theatre can keep bringing laughter, joy and creativity back to the area for years to come.”
