Leicester Haymarket

Shock closure of enterprising high quality theatreIn a May announcement the Leicester Haymarket Theatre states that because of financial difficulties they will close temporarily. The current programme of plays and activity continues as advertised until the end of July. The theatre plans to reopen for public performance in 2004.

The company says it is committed to producing theatre in Leicester. It says 'During this temporary closure, a reduced core staff will operate from the Haymarket Theatre to develop new projects, deliver educational, participatory and specially-funded work and plan for the opening of the new Performing Arts Centre.

A five year business development plan has been prepared outlining artistic vision and operational plans up till 2008. The Arts Council and Leicester City Council are supporting a programme of financial and organisational restructuring.

At ReviewsGate we can think of organisations who have been enabled by funders to remain open while such restructuring happens. It's a shame that this bright and committed theatre should have to close, even temporarily. It consistently produces high-quality work and has built and continues to strengthen relationships with its diverse communities.

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2003-05-27 08:32:33