Historic Harrogate Theatre meeting agrees in principle to Royal Hall partnership.
 
Harrogate Theatre held a joint Board and Trustees meeting on Monday 16 January for the first time in its history to discuss the Royal Hall.
 
It was unanimously agreed that the Theatre should enter into a partnership with Harrogate Borough Council to secure the future of the Royal Hall.
 
Talks between both sides will continue to ensure that details are agreed in time for approval at the full Harrogate Council meeting on 9 February 2012.
 
David Bown, Chief Executive at Harrogate Theatre said: “This is a very exciting partnership between the Theatre and Harrogate Borough Council to create one of the most thrilling cultural offers in the region, if not the country. Also in these difficult times it will contribute to the local economy in a meaningful way. We are mindful of our responsibility to the history of the Theatre and excited at the new emerging artistic programme.”
 
Jim Clark, Chairman of Harrogate Theatre said: “I feel this is an extraordinary and unique opportunity to bring together our two heritage buildings that will create strategic purpose and sustainability for many years to come for Theatre, Royal Hall and the arts scene of Harrogate and District. The success of this enterprise is dependent on the support of the whole community, which Harrogate Theatre has always valued in the past.
 
This week also sees the Theatre launch its new season, which combines the Royal Hall and Harrogate Theatre & Studio under the banner of Harrogate Theatres for the first time. From February to May 2012 over 90 performances will take place over the three venues with 6 World Premieres, 8 Community Productions as well as world class artists such as Edward Fox & family, The Hallé, Northern Sinfonia, Stewart Lee, Rich Hall and Honor Blackman amongst many others.
 
This way of working follows on from Harrogate Theatre’s successful initiative to create Harrogate Box Office in April 2011 – a one-stop shop for booking a range of entertainment happening at multiple venues and festivals within the region.