Fears of final curtain for theatre

But there are fears that unless cash can be found to support Richmond’s Georgian Theatre Royal, which opened in 1788 and is the oldest working theatre in the UK still in its original form, its curtain could fall for good.

Tomorrow the theatre will launch a £122,500 fundraising appeal to raise awareness of its work and to secure much needed financial support for the future.

Malcolm Bryant, chairman of the Georgian Theatre Royal, said: “If we cannot raise the money that we need then the future of the theatre is under threat.

“We are very optimistic that we can get the support that we need, however.

“It’s very difficult to contemplate the possibility of closing but if we do not get the funding then that could happen to us, as it could to any organisation.

“It’s an absolutely exquisite, truly unique gem of a theatre.”

Mr Bryant said the theatre, in common with many others, had been hit by the recession. It was reliant upon grants and support from organisations but the recession had meant there was more and more competition for less money.

The theatre, built by actor-manager Samuel Butler, is a typical 18th-century country playhouse.

Throughout its history it has undergone a number of reincarnations.

Up until 1830 it was in regular use but after this date performances became less frequent and in 1848 it was let as an auction room.

In 1960 a public appeal was launched and a restoration project began, with the theatre re-opening in 1963. In 2002 a second extensive restoration of the theatre began which saw it given a more authentic colour scheme and an extension creating a box office and third dressing room.

The 200-seat theatre has hosted figures from Georgian star Edmund Kean to Alan Bennett. It still retains many original features including The Woodland Scene, scenery painted between 1818 and 1836. “It’s a wonderful venue which performers love coming to,” Mr Bryant said.

The appeal comes in what is is a very significant year for the theatre as it celebrates a trio of anniversaries. It is 225 years since it was built, 50 years since it re-opened and a decade since its restoration.

Over the next 12 months the Georgian Theatre Royal has set a target of raising £122,500 from donations. It has exciting plans for development but says the present financial situation is a major challenge.

Mr Bryant said the theatre made a valuable contribution to the local economy.

It only has a small staff and 
is very reliant upon and grateful to a team of over 100 
volunteers.

“Everyone is aware that this is currently a challenging time for arts organisations.

“This is particularly so for the unique Georgian Theatre Royal which in addition to its artistic programme makes a major contribution to tourism, young people and the wider community. The Triple Anniversary Appeal will support all our activities and allow us to continue to educate and entertain.

“During 2012 the theatre developed exciting plans for a learning centre that will provide a unique opportunity for people of all ages to increase their knowledge, awareness and appreciation of theatre in the Georgian period and its social, geographical and historical context.”

Anyone interested in donating or supporting the theatre appeal should call 01748 823710 or email [email protected]. Appeal brochures are available from the theatre and more information is available by visiting the website: www.georgiantheatreroyal.co.uk

Mr Bryant said he was particularly proud of its Youth Theatre which has around 180 members, aged between four and 18, and offers young performers a valuable insight into treading the boards.

“We see young people grow in confidence and some then go onto university courses or other training,” he said.

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