The future of The Electric Theatre which is run by Guildford Council is in doubt with the holding a consultation over its funding of the venue.
The theatre which is based in the old electricity works has gained a reputation for the promotion of the arts across all levels, from community workshops to concerts by internationally recognised artists.
The theatre is owned and managed by Guildford Council with the help of volunteers and is used as a venue by Guildford Book Festival and Guildford International Music Festival.
Lead Councillor for Economic Development, Heritage and Tourism, Cllr Geoff Davis, says
“We need to identify £9.6 million savings to make across the whole council during the next four years. This is one of a number of reviews taking place as we face an increasingly challenging financial climate. We want to avoid cutting services, so we are focusing on delivering services in a different way.
“We try to balance the needs of the community with our aim of providing more efficient services. This is why it is important that we review how we operate facilities such as The Electric Theatre.
“We are looking at the role of the Electric Theatre plays in arts and culture in the borough and whether it should continue to provide such a role. No decisions have been made yet about the theatre’s future. We want to hear from as many people as possible so please tell us what you think.”
With many arts facilities in the local areas such as The Boileroom, G Live and the Yvonne Arnaud Theatre, is there still the demand for the Electric Theatre and should the council continue to fund it?
Let the council know by completing the survey at http://www.guildford.gov.uk/electrictheatre/survey. The consultation closes at 5pm on February 29.
We would also like to know your views so let us know your views in the box below.