Groups urged to help run Lyceum Theatre in Crewe
A COUNCIL is looking to share the future running of a landmark theatre with another group or company.
Crewe's Lyceum Theatre was facing an uncertain future when Cheshire East Council announced it was considering withdrawing its annual subsidy of £250,000 last year.
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UNCERTAIN FUTURE: The Lyceum Theatre.
But after spending £10,000 of taxpayers' cash paying for consultants to consider what to do next with the venue, the council is now inviting organisations to express an interest with a view to partnering the authority in the future management of the building.
The council says it is not looking to sell the theatre, which is celebrating its 100th birthday this year.
Instead, it is "seeking a suitably qualified and experienced partner to work with them in managing this asset."
Councillor Rod Menlove, cabinet member with responsibility for environmental services, said: "We fully understand the importance of securing the theatre's future, especially as it celebrates its centenary.
"The Lyceum Theatre has a proud and rich history, playing host to so many memorable events over the years. It is at the heart of the local community.
"Our aim is for this to continue."
Adverts have been placed in local media and appropriate trade publications, giving details about how to raise an interest in tendering for the future management of the historic facility.
Mr Menlove added: "I am pleased to say this process is now underway.
"We want to work with a partner who has new ideas and the experience and enthusiasm to match the council's desire for the theatre to remain as an important cultural asset and to improve the theatrical offer for visitors.
"This opportunity follows the successful transfer of the lease for Malkins Bank golf course in Sandbach earlier this year."
RM Estates was chosen to take on the 18-hole course and its buildings after a tendering process by the council, which will remain the owner of the site.
Margaret Taylor, secretary of Crewe Operatics Society, welcomed the news.
She said: "This can only be a good idea in my opinion because I don't think the council has enough experience to properly run the venue.
"A conglomerate of local amateur theatre groups running the venue would be good to see, because they have to make sure the shows pay and get bums on seats.
"No-one wants to see the theatre close so anything which is going to help with the running of the venue and improve it has to be welcomed."
Councillor Dorothy Flude, who represents Crewe South and is leader of the Labour group on the council, said she hoped a company would come forward and work alongside Cheshire East Council.
She said: "The theatre makes a loss every year so the council has got to do something about it.
"My only concern is that in these difficult times we might not find people to come forward and get involved with running the venue.
"It's the only theatre in Crewe, the best in the county and a treasure for the town, and it would be a tragedy if we lost it."
The deadline for expressions of interest is February 10, 2012.
2 Comments
by Mike_Flynn
Friday, December 23 2011, 4:37PM
“Visited this theatre with 2 children and the rake of the seats is appalling. If you are unlucky and a big bloke sits in front of you won't be able to see the stage at all as an adult and it is therefore completely unsuitable for children. Neither of my children had an unrestricted view of the stage and the smallest could not see at all – despite us checking in advance and being told that there would be no problem. We left without seeing the show and won't be back! – Disgraceful and unacceptable.”
by Notanumber
Tuesday, December 20 2011, 1:05PM
“The Lyceum is a spectactular venue for any play and it's a pity that theatre going isn't more popular. Most people forget that it's the theatre were the majority of our actors being their careers, they don't suddenly end up in a blockbuster movie. I am a regular patron of this theatre and love the style and decor of the place which isn't evident from the outside. Hope it keeps going.”