Many people in the Wellington area will be saddened by the news that Taunton’s Brewhouse Theatre is set to close.
Trustees of Taunton Theatre Association have announced that, without further funds, the final curtain will come down at the end of October.
Their statement says: “It is planned that all performances and activities will continue normally throughout October whilst we try to raise the necessary funds and identify cost savings.
“We will not take bookings beyond that date until the situation is clear. We will be in touch with those who have tickets for performances from November 1 shortly.
“This sad news comes after our successful bid to Arts Council England. The award is for capital works and cannot be used for running costs.
“This financial pressure has arisen due to the prolonged period of challenging trading conditions we have all experienced this year and was exacerbated by the very hot summer weather which saw some shows cancelled and a decline in attendance.
“As a charity, our finances are always finely balanced and, regrettably, we do not have sufficient reserves to withstand these losses.
“We value our ability to provide a safe and welcoming space for many in our community to enjoy entertainment and to meet and make friends. For some we are a lifeline, and it will be devastating for the whole town to lose such an important cultural venue.
“We appreciate this is a difficult situation for everyone involved: our wonderful team of staff and volunteers, shows and classes that bring so much joy to us all, and our loyal audiences and friends.
“We thank too the businesses which sponsor us, individuals who give or raise monies for us, and our key funder Taunton Town Council.
“We are immensely grateful to all.”
Image courtesy of the Brewhouse Theatre.