An independent study reveals critical challenges to the Scottish producing theatre sector. Titled ‘Disappearing Act?’, the report, conducted by independent analysts Data Culture Change, sheds light on the alarming state of the sector and calls for immediate and sustained action to protect this important element of Scotland’s rich cultural heritage.
Commissioned in 2022 by six prominent independent producing theatres – Dundee Rep and Scottish Dance Theatre; Citizens Theatre, Glasgow; Pitlochry Festival Theatre; Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh; The Traverse, Edinburgh and The Tron, Glasgow – the study provides an extensive analysis of the current theatre landscape in Scotland.
The study draws attention to several key points that demand urgent attention along with a series of recommendations.
The 4 key points are:
1. Producing theatre in Scotland has significant scale and impact
2. Decades of cuts compounded by external factors
3. The lack of Scottish representation in theatre consumption
4. The challenge of attracting and retaining skilled staff
Chief Executive of Data Culture Change David Brownlee said, “Scotland is home to six of the world’s most exciting and diverse producing theatres. They have been doing all they can to deliver ‘more for less’ every year for over a decade, but in the wake of Covid and the middle of a cost-of-living crisis, an existential threat looms for individual theatres and the sector as a whole. The good news is that theatre managers know that no change is not an option and they will have to work in different ways to increase income, share skills and build audiences. With increased investment from Government and by the thousands of people who care deeply about work made in this country, the next decade could be a great one for Scottish theatre.”
The report’s recommendations are:
1. A common approach
2. Producing new Scottish work that will attract large audiences, nationally and internationally
3. Growing and diversifying audiences for theatre made in Scotland
4. Collective Workforce Programme
5. Working groups to address major technical and legal issues
A joint statement from the six independent producing theatres declares:
“As executive leaders of Scotland six independent producing theatres we feel the stark challenges this report reveals around making theatre in this country now and in the future.
“Confronting the consequences of decades of public funding reductions alongside rising costs is a daily reality for us. Whilst we recognise the strain on public resources, we also recognise that continuing to achieve more with less is not sustainable.
“Greater collaboration is required as we face upcoming challenges and opportunities. That’s why we find the proposal to adopt a common approach moving forward so compelling. Our collective diversity can serve as an asset for the people of Scotland even as we maintain our individual focus and purpose.
“By aligning on common goals whilst preserving that individuality, we can work smarter to the benefits of all our communities. A shared approach will capitalise on our collective strengths, encourage innovation, and promote the cultivation of new audiences.
“We are committed to a bright future for Scotland’s theatre sector. A sustainable producing theatre sector is fundamental to the future of the performing arts in this country and we intend to contribute to a healthier and more vibrant cultural landscape.
“We have the potential to expand the market for theatre makers in Scotland domestically, throughout the wider UK, and internationally. This will increase the benefits of those working in the industry and boost the overall economy by bringing more visitors to Scotland and taking the best of Scottish talent to the world”
Irene Brown
Radio Summerhall Arts 