Arts / Volunteers sought to explore idea of independent Garrison Theatre
NEW sources of funding could be opened up to help secure the long-term future of the Garrison Theatre if it was run by a social enterprise at arms length of existing organisations, a study has suggested.
Shetland Arts currently runs the building and it recently commissioned an appraisal of options for the theatre’s future.
The future of the 280-seat venue, which is owned by Shetland Charitable Trust and was built in 1904, had been in doubt due to reduced public funding.
Shetland Arts is now looking for up to five volunteers to work directly with the organisation to explore the potential of an independent Garrison Theatre.
The Garrison Theatre Development Group would meet four times, once a month between June and September.
Shetland Arts chief executive Graeme Howell said: “No decision has yet been made on how best to support The Garrison Theatre into the future, however it would be reckless of us not to be considering all possibilities on how to ensure the sustainability of the theatre.
“We are keen to bring together five individuals who have diverse skills, experience of social enterprise and are fully invested in exploring different delivery and management models for the future of The Garrison Theatre.”
John Haswell, chairman of steering group Friends of the Garrison, said: “We are pleased that this report stresses the importance of a sustainable future for the Garrison Theatre.
“Productions in the Garrison (either as audience or participants) have been a vital part of the lives of many generations. We are particularly excited about making sure it is a vital part of the lives of generations to come.
“Friends of the Garrison will study the report in detail and deliver our feedback to Shetland Arts in due course. We are encouraged that all parties share the same long-term objective of a secure and sustainable future for the Garrison Theatre.”
Anyone interesting in joining the The Garrison Theatre Development Group is asked to submit a CV and covering letter outlining how you would like to contribute by email to graeme.howell@shetlandarts.org.
Expressions of interest must be received by midnight on Sunday 19 May.
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