Watermill launches fundraising campaign to mitigate loss of capacity due to restrictions
THE Watermill theatre has launched a new appeal to help it to stay afloat during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Bagnor venue did not qualify for the lifeline Government Cultural Recovery Funding grants announced for many venues on Monday, including Newbury’s Corn Exchange (see front page).
However, it has been given a fighting chance of getting back on its feet thanks to the generosity of the theatre’s supporters and the combined efforts of its staff and volunteers.
After two shows staged in the riverside garden, the theatre’s auditorium re-opened on September 22 with a socially-distanced one-man show, Bloodshot, performed by award-winning composer and actor Simon Slater.
Bloodshot, which ends its run at the weekend, is the first of three productions planned for the theatre’s autumn season, featuring smaller cast sizes, reduced capacity inside the auditorium and socially distanced seating to enable audiences to get back to watching the best of live theatre.
However, with safety a priority and a variety of new measures introduced to aid social distancing, the audience capacity for each performance has been significantly reduced and this has a huge impact on ticket income.
As a result, The Watermill is calling for donations to its new FULL HOUSE appeal. The registered arts charity is asking for support to help overcome the effects of reducing its seating capacity during this unprecedented period.
Artistic and executive director Paul Hart said: “We are delighted to bring live theatre to The Watermill’s stage once again and have loved welcoming audiences back.
“Undoubtedly the audience experience will look and feel different at the theatre this season as we have implemented lots of new measures to help with social distancing and to keep everyone safe.
“Unfortunately, operating in this way means we are only able to sell approximately 37 per cent of the seats in our auditorium – we usually aim to reach in excess of 80 per cent capacity to break even.
“From the feedback we have received already, the uplifting effect that live theatre has on audiences is clear and we are determined to continue creating ambitious and exciting theatre for people of all ages to enjoy, but operating at such a reduced capacity involves a high level of financial risk.
“Sadly, The Watermill did not qualify for funding from the Government's £1.5bn arts industry bailout so now more than ever your support towards our FULL HOUSE appeal will make a dramatic difference.”
To find out how you can help, go to watermill.org.uk or call the box office on (01635) 46044.
MP speaks out for local arts venues, see page 9