Around half of small theatres in London 'insecure' about future: new Assembly report

A new London Assembly report today sets out an action plan for the capital's small theatres, as it reveals almost half feel insecure about their financial future and more than a third fear their venues are at risk of being sold or converted by developers.

However, Centre Stage, a new report from the Assembly Economy Committee highlights how many face serious potential threats to their existence and may be at risk of closing in the capital.

The report sets out an action plan to help them, which includes calling on the Mayor to appoint a new ambassador for small theatres to bring the sector together and implement the recommendations. It also urges Transport for London to enable venues to advertise in Tube, rail and tram stations by replacing out-of-date posters or filling empty spaces with details of local productions.

Tom Copley AM, who led the investigation on behalf of the Assembly Economy Committee, said: "Beyond the bright lights of the West End, there are theatres all across London which play an essential part in the cultural life of the capital. These are the places where actors, producers and directors hone their skills and where hundreds of new productions are staged every year.

"However, it is clear from our survey that they are facing real difficulties at the moment and many feel insecure about their future. It would be a terrible loss to the capital if these venues were allowed to disappear. We hope the different organisations that can all help these venues will take up our call to action and ensure London’s fringe venues can survive and thrive in the years ahead".

Theatres, producers, directors, audiences and actors all contributed their views to the investigation, including actress and comedienne Jo Brand who said: "Theatres and performance spaces are essential if we value cultural experiences. Opportunities to experiment and learn are vital to sustain the fantastic performing talent we nurture - against all odds, it sometimes feels. Small is generally where you start, hence the preservation of small venues must be a priority, not just in London but country wide”.

However, new research among small theatres in London, conducted as part of the six-month-long investigation, found:

  •   almost half feel "insecure" and one in five feels "very insecure" about their financial future

  •   more than a third fear their venues are at risk of being sold or converted by developers as landlords take advantage of rising property values

  •  three quarters of small venues surveyed need to significantly upgrade or repair their buildings but 93 per cent have yet to raise the money to carry out the work

  •  managers have very low awareness of new planning laws that could help to protect theatre buildings

  •  many small venues do not attract enough customers but have difficulty finding resources for marketing

The report also warns that while most theatres have survived the economic downturn so far, a further squeeze on disposable incomes could have a significant impact. Reduced spending on the arts - both nationally and locally – has already hit several of London’s theatres hard and more cuts are likely.

To put small theatres on a more secure financial footing, the report sets out an action plan with recommendations to boost audiences, expand shows and make it easier for venues to access funding for building repairs.

Other recommendations put forward in the action plan include:

  •  Better marketing and promotion about shows at small theatres through festivals organised by the Greater London Authority and on the 'Visit London' website

  •  New joint marketing by small theatres to boost audience numbers and for West End venues to consider greater co-operation to assist smaller theatres

  •  The GLA and London boroughs should consider ways to help with funding, such as through regeneration funds, or the Community Infrastructure Levy, and more small theatres encouraged to apply for Arts Council funding.

  •  The GLA should also consider setting up a new fund to help theatres, drawing in philanthropic support, which would raise money for theatre repairs and upgrades.

  •  Smaller theatres could be given access to performance space in larger theatres to encourage expansion of successful shows or be allowed to use empty spaces, such as vacant offices or shops, identified by the GLA, London boroughs and local business groups

  •  The Mayor should offer up available space in City Hall to small theatre groups needing places to rehearse.

- See more at http://www.london.gov.uk/mayor-assembly/london-assembly/publications/centre-stage-supporting-small-theatres-in-the-capital.