Harrogate Theatre says it 'will still deliver' despite Arts Council funding blow

Harrogate Theatre's chief executive and playwright David Bown: "Harrogate Theatre has played a key role in the economic recovery of Harrogate post-pandemic and will continue to provide a rich artistic programme to inspire and entertain."

After hearing that it will not be part of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio for 2023, Deborah Larwood, Chair of Harrogate Theatre's board, said it would work hard to continue to deliver a great service to the district's cultural sector.

“Following this news, the Board and Leadership team will take some time to reflect and reimagine our plans from April 2023, as we continue to support the Let’s Create agenda and ensure that Harrogate Theatre continues to deliver a vibrant cultural offer for people of all ages across the Harrogate district.

"We will continue to work alongside Arts Council England and to advocate for the value of the arts in all our lives.”

Harrogate Theatre has been a member of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio for many years.

Its funding has helped Harrogate Theatre to bring a fantastic range of artists to the town, supported its work with children through its incredible youth theatre and schools work, supported emerging artists to develop their craft and staged the award-winning pantomime.

During the pandemic, the theatre also received substantial additional cash injections from the Arts Council.

A successful bid for support during lockdown led to a £395,000 grant in July 2020.

While Harrogate Theatre is disappointed to learn that it will not be part of Arts Council England’s National Portfolio for 2023-2026 it said it remains grateful to Arts Council England (ACE) for its support.

Harrogate Theatre's chief executive David Bown said its work went on: “I am proud of the positive impact Harrogate Theatre has on our community."Our extensive programme of events and workshops reach an audience of over 150,000 per year due to the extraordinary talent and dedication of our staff, volunteers, board and the incredible artists on our stages.

"Harrogate Theatre has played a key role in the economic recovery of Harrogate post-pandemic and will continue to provide a rich artistic programme to inspire and entertain."