Theatres Adviser Rebecca Morland has been on hand throughout the discussions with regard to the future of Sutton’s theatres. Working for the Theatres’ Trust currently she and her organisation have been available to offer support to any of those who have expressed interest in trying to develop either or both the Secombe and Charles Cryer Theatres.
The Theatres’ Trust is the national advisory body for theatres and for the protection of theatre buildings. They, through Rebecca, have been prepared to offer advice to all sides of the discussions in Sutton from supporters of local theatres to the local authority.
What has been positive to Rebecca so far is that there is real interest in trying to develop the theatres in the borough.
“What has been very clear from the early meetings is that there are groups of very committed people who are working very hard to put plans together,” she said.
“What we try to do is to offer support either by using our expertise in directing groups to others who have been through such a process but also by being there in the council context to use our particular experience and knowledge.”
Rebecca is aware that all over the country discussions of this type are being forced upon communities but that also the solutions can be extremely varied.
“There are very many ways of approaching these issues and it does appear that each local authority or local community will face different challenges.”
Once the decisions have been taken with regard to the various approaches that have been made to Sutton Council which is likely in November the Theatres’ Trust will also be on hand to offer more advice and support.
“Obviously we don’t push ourselves on to any group and if there are teams that are entirely confident in their ability to develop their plans – then that is great. But we will always be on hand to do what we can.”