Jobs at risk at Manchester's Royal Exchange Theatre
The Royal Exchange Theatre in Manchester, one of the UK's most celebrated theatres says more than half of the staff are facing redundancy.
The theatre, which has an annual turnover of £10 million makes its money from ticket sales, fundraising, food and drink and venue hire.
The company says it has been forced to make the 'painful' decision to consult with staff over the loss of up to 65% of its permanent roles redundant to try to protect the Royal Exchange for the future.
They've described this as devastating for their loyal staff, but with live performances still banned, they have no confidence or clarity from the government on when they can restart.
The Royal Exchange has two artistic directors and is known for its spaceship-like, in the round stage, situated in the great hall of the Grade II-listed building, once the world's biggest cotton exchange.
Bryony Shanahan, Artistic Director, said:
"It’s been heart-breaking to come to the realisation that this is the action we have no choice but to take. Our staff are dedicated, talented, loyal and they don’t deserve this – and neither do the thousands of people in our industry who are facing job loss and uncertainty."
The Mayor of Greater Manchester, Andy Burnham has promised to do all he can to support the Royal Exchange but said there was nothing in the government's roadmap for the arts industry that gave them hope for the future.
Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden set out a five-stage 'phased return' plan for the performing arts last week - but didn't provide any dates or promises of further financial support for the stricken sector.