The Stage

Ongoing renovation

Published Tuesday 11 September 2007 at 10:55

May I address points raised by the letter from John Osborne (September 6, page 9), concerning Ambassador Theatre Group’s implementation of the restoration levy.

In line with a number of other theatre operators in the West End and regionally, Ambassador Theatre Group introduced this fund-raising initiative in Brighton last year to assist in the essential work required to preserve this beautiful 200-year-old Grade II listed building for future generations and as part of England’s theatrical heritage.

Mr Osborne may not be aware that the Theatre Royal receives no public funding whatsoever, and that ATG has already invested £3 million of its own in the venue. However, historic buildings require significant ongoing maintenance and renovation, and the restoration levy is a recognised means to help fund the essential refurbishment programme. The money has not, as Mr Osborne wrongly claims, contributed to ATG’s growth in profits. All money raised is invested in the theatre’s refurbishment projects which would otherwise remain uncompleted.

Since the levy has been in place in Brighton, our customers have already started to see the benefits. We have been able to carry out a very delicate restoration and repainting of the theatre facade, including the extremely rare terracotta columns. Railings and sash windows have been replaced and existing brickwork has been re-cladded and re-pointed. During the summer, we have refurbished and re-seated the entire second circle area, which has made a significant improvement to the enjoyment of the audience sitting in this part of the auditorium. Now work on the gallery level has been earmarked as the next step in the venue’s restoration programme.

Theatre Royal Brighton values its customers greatly and has forged a very special relationship with the theatregoing public during the last 200 years. The comfort and safety of our customers is our number one priority. Please be assured we want to provide the best possible theatre experience for our audiences by bringing this historic building up to the modern day standards that customers expect and we feel confident the restoration programme will deliver this clear objective.

Julien Boast

Chief executive

Theatre Royal Brighton

New Road

Brighton