A local theatre in Scotland, the Brunton Theatre in Musselburgh, is in urgent need of support to ensure its survival. The venue has been facing financial challenges over the last five years, with the discovery of reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) forcing the closure of its purpose-built performance spaces in 2023.
Despite facing various obstacles, the Brunton Theatre Trust has been resilient in providing the community with top-notch entertainment, including theatre, music, dance, comedy, film, and participatory events. However, the Trust is now in the midst of a financial crisis, prompting an urgent call for help from funders and the public.
The Chair of the Trust, Michael Stitt, highlighted the importance of support from entities like East Lothian Council, Creative Scotland, the Scottish Government, and the public to maintain the venue’s high-quality arts, culture, and entertainment offerings. He emphasized the need for donations, joining the Friends scheme, booking tickets for events, and expressing the significance of the Trust to local councillors.
Recent reports revealed that the council grant to the theatre was significantly reduced, putting the venue at risk of running out of funds. The Trust is urging the council to reinstate the funding to prevent the loss of a valuable community asset. Additionally, they are waiting for a funding decision from Creative Scotland’s Multi-Year Fund to ensure sustainability for the next three years.
Supporters of the campaign include well-known figures like panto dame Graham Crammond, comedian Craig Hill, and producer Louise Gilmour-Wills. The Brunton Theatre also collaborates with local schools to provide access to performances and educational initiatives throughout the year.
In the upcoming autumn season, the theatre has a lineup of exciting performances, including shows from the Royal Northern Sinfonia, Still Game comedians Mark Cox & Jane McCarry, soloists from the RSNO, Talon – The Best of the Eagles, and the popular Brunton pantomime.
The community has expressed their support for the theatre, with individuals like Samantha Mackay from Friends of Stobhill Primary School praising the annual pantomime and the positive impact it has on the local community. The appeal for funding aims to ensure that the Brunton Theatre can continue to delight audiences for years to come.