BRISTOL OLD VIC THEATRE COMPANY

Early day motion 2144, tabled 17 October 2007 by Janet Anderson (Labour). Signed by 28 members.

That this House is concerned for the future of the Bristol Old Vic theatre company; was surprised by the sudden decision to close the Theatre Royal Bristol, home of the Bristol Old Vic company, for refurbishment for 18 months from August; is disappointed at the absence of any firm plans to secure its future following the refurbishment; would support the appointment of an artistic director to develop a programme of productions, for both the closure period and when the Theatre Royal reopens; believes that such a fine producing theatre, which has a 240 year history of entertaining Bristol audiences, should not be allowed to fade away or be required to reduce its commitment to in-house productions to win funding; and urges Arts Council England to clarify the future of the Bristol Old Vic and reaffirm a commitment to the preservation of thriving regional theatre companies.

Signatures by party: Labour 21, Conservative 3, Liberal Democrat 3, DUP 1.