DUMFRIES’ Theatre Royal has launched a new campaign to keep the theatre going amid growing financial pressures.
The ‘Keep Theatre Live’ campaign aims to raise £30,000 through crowdfunding, to avoid reducing the programme at Scotland’s oldest working theatre.
Rising costs, such as national insurance, energy bills and materials, have added to the theatre’s financial pressures. Although grant funding is being sought, it is becoming increasingly difficult to obtain.
Theatre director Mark Alexander this week said: “We had disappointing news that we were not awarded Creative Scotland Multi Year Funding in February 2025, but we are determined to work through the challenge, as we did during covid.”
With audiences nudging 20,000 for 143 public performances in 2024 – 2025, and 380 workshops attracting a further 4800 participants, the theatre has been busy almost every night of the week.
The venue plays a role in the night-time economy in Dumfries town centre, and is one of the town’s visitor attractions, celebrating a 233-year history.
A dedicated team from the Guild of Players are already planning a number of fundraising events, including a musical night, a run of the acclaimed play ‘Tally’s Blood’ in October and shows performed by the Guild of Players Youth Theatre.
For more information about the campaign visit: www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/keep-theatre-live.
