A Cumbrian theatre has welcomed a grant of more than £87,000 to help smooth the transition towards becoming viable and sustainable as coronavirus restrictions begin to ease.
Theatre by the Lake, based on the shores of Derwentwater in Keswick, has received the funding from the Government’s Culture Recovery Fund.
“We are really grateful to have a received a further £87,699 from the Culture Recovery Fund,” said Liz Stevenson and James Cobbold, artistic director and executive director at the theatre.
“The investment we’ve received to date has been essential in supporting TBTL’s transition back to a viable and sustainable organisation and has enabled us to ensure that our theatre is a safe, comfortable and welcoming space for our communities, audiences, artists and staff as we prepare for reopening later in the year.
“We have also been able to explore new ways of engaging with our communities and supporting local artists through an exciting digital programme of work, including playreading workshops with renowned playwrights, rehearsed readings of new work, live shows and a showcase of the work of local artists.
“This latest award helps us to move closer to reopening. We have only just heard this fantastic news and our plans are still being finalised. Over the coming months, there will be lots of new and different ways to engage with us – including a continuing digital programme, outdoor events and activities, and a return to live theatre.
“This would not have been possible without the support of the Government, the Arts Council and of our audiences and communities. We will share further information about our plans over the coming weeks.”