Issue - meetings

This report sets out how capital funding allocated by the council is to be used by York Theatre Royal.

Resolved: 

i.             That the partnership aims, as set out in paragraph 6 of the report, be approved.

ii.            That the application of the funding, as set out in paragraph 9 of the report, be approved.

Reason: To ensure that York Theatre Royal continues to play a significant role in York’s vibrant cultural offer. 

The Executive Member considered a report that set out how capital funding allocated by the Council was to be used by York Theatre Royal.

The Assistant Director of Communities and Culture was in attendance to provide an update. He informed the Executive Member that the decision to allocate £500k of capital funding to  York Theatre Royal was agreed at Budget Council on 27 February 2020, subject to a report to this Decision Session with regard to how this funding would be used. He stated that the funding would cover a four year period and that by making the grant this way it enabled the Council to make an annual revenue saving.

The Executive Member noted the partnership aims, as highlighted within the report and the Executive Director of York Theatre Royal was also in attendance to confirm the application of the funding. It was noted that the grant would provide sustainability for the theatre and allow for:

·        Green initiatives in respect of theatre lighting.

·        Improvements to the energy efficiency.

·        Investment in box office software and equipment.

·        Disabled access improvements across the site, including rehearsal space in De Grey House.

·        New studio space to expand the youth theatre.

The Executive Director answered the Executive Members questions regarding the impact of the coronavirus, where it was noted that the theatre was open and was following national advice and guidance in respect of Covid-19. Ticket sales had declined but customers who had tickets were still attending.

The Executive Director thanked the Council for their continued support, which contributed to the cultural life of the city and the wellbeing of York’s citizens and young people.

The Executive Member thanked the Executive Director and Assistant Director for their update.

Resolved: 

i.             That the partnership aims, as set out in paragraph 6 of the report, be approved.

ii.             That the application of the funding, as set out in paragraph 9 of the report, be approved.

Reason: To ensure that York Theatre Royal continued to play a significant role in York’s vibrant cultural offer.