BRISTOL OLD VIC THEATRE COMPANY

That this House is concerned for the future of the Bristol Old Vic theatre company; was surprised by the sudden decision to close the Theatre Royal Bristol, home of the Bristol Old Vic company, for refurbishment for 18 months from August; is disappointed at the absence of any firm plans to secure its future following the refurbishment; would support the appointment of an artistic director to develop a programme of productions, for both the closure period and when the Theatre Royal reopens; believes that such a fine producing theatre, which has a 240 year history of entertaining Bristol audiences, should not be allowed to fade away or be required to reduce its commitment to in-house productions to win funding; and urges Arts Council England to clarify the future of the Bristol Old Vic and reaffirm a commitment to the preservation of thriving regional theatre companies.