MALVERN Theatres has been given a boost of almost £1million by the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund.
The news, announced by the Culture Secretary today, will ensure the venue has a long-term sustainable future.
Malvern Theatres is one of 1,385 cultural and creative organisations across the country receiving the urgently needed support – £1.57 billion in total for all the organisations.
It is part of the first round of grants being administered by Arts Council England.
Malvern Theatres has been fund-raising since it closed its doors in March owing to the Covid crisis and the grant will allow the theatre to plan more confidently for the year ahead, including new productions suitable for socially distanced times.
The theatre’s phased reopening has already proved successful and popular with audiences, who this week can enjoy Alan Bennett’s Talking Heads, as well as films in the cinema.
Nic Lloyd, Malvern Theatres Chief Executive, said he was ‘beyond delighted’ with the funding.
“The sum reflects our esteemed place in the country’s theatre scene – an eminent status that we work hard to maintain and I’m incredibly happy that
the town will have this investment when it needs it most.
“This grant by no means protects the theatre indefinitely, but it does allow us to look ahead and plan more confidently for a future, whatever that may look like post-Covid.
“Our recovery, as for all charities and most businesses, will be slow, but there is hope.”
He said he was grateful to everyone who had supported the campaign so far and hoped the theatre could count on audiences to make it through the crisis.
“If we can take anything positive from this pandemic, it has been the heart-warming displays of community spirit and fortitude that we’ve all seen and experienced.
“The people of Malvern have shown their true colours from day one, and I’m incredibly proud of everything my team has achieved in the worst circumstances, and the support our community has shown to us and to each other.”
Oliver Dowden, Culture Secretary, said the funding provided vital boosts for the theatres, music venues, museums and cultural organisations which ‘formed the soul of the nation’.
“It will protect these special places, save jobs and help the culture sector’s recovery.
“These places and projects are cultural beacons the length and breadth of the country.
“This unprecedented investment in the arts is proof this Government is here for culture, with further support to come in the days and weeks ahead so that the culture sector can bounce back strongly.”
Sir Nicholas Serota, Chair, Arts Council England, said theatres, museums, galleries, dance companies and music venues brought joy to people and
life to cities, towns and villages.
“This life-changing funding will save thousands of cultural spaces loved by local communities and international audiences.”
To book tickets at Malvern Theatres or to donate to its Covid appeal, visit Malverntheatres.co.uk.
