News: Theatres Trust announce at Risk Register 2021

Theatres Trust have announced their annual Theatres at Risk Register, which highlights buildings with strong architectural merit and community value that are at risk of redevelopment or closure.

With the pandemic having devastating effects on the UK theatre industry, causing closures and cancelled productions and risking companies and jobs. Theatres Trust is the national advisory body for theatres, and has assisted theatres throughout the crisis with their Theatre Reopening Fund grants, #SaveOurTheatres Crowdfunder campaign and free special advice services.

The At Risk Register is now in its 14th year, with 31 theatres appearing on this vitally important list, with the new addition of Co-op Music Hall in Ramsbottom. The Register supports theatres under threat of demolition, redevelopment or permanent closure and calls public attention to these buildings. Every theatre on the list has strong architectural or cultural heritage and, crucially, the potential to be returned to performance use and be a real asset to its community.

After a difficult year for the theatre industry, theatres on the 2020 list will not be removed, although positive steps have been made by several theatres, particularly those receiving additional support through the Theatres Trust’s Theatres at Risk Capacity Building Programme.

Theatres Trust is calling for collaborative creative partnerships between local authorities, theatre owners, operators and community groups to protect all theatres on the list. Collaboration is vital for both for saving theatres on the Theatres at Risk Register as well as helping theatres continue to navigate the challenges of Covid-19.

Theatres included on the 2021 list are: