AN independent report on the future of theatre in Farnham, published later this month, concludes that a viable service could be reintroduced without public funding. The report, commissioned by the Farnham Theatre Association (FTA) and carried out by Michael Holden Associates, also observes a "latent, evidenced demand for a purpose-built theatre in Farnham". It accuses Waverley Borough Council (WBC), owners of the long-dormant Redgrave theatre in East Street, of not considering the possibility of a self- sustaining theatre for fear of having to bail out any ill-fated attempt to establish one. WBC has insisted that the Redgrave will be pulled down when plans are finalised for the East Street redevelopment, and supports plans for the Maltings to provide local theatrical productions. An executive summary of the anxiously awaited report identifies a "significant potential theatre- using population" in the town and surrounding area, a finding apparently supported by the Arts Council for England. The authors of the paper consider three options for the provision of theatre. The first is to take no action but this, they argue, would mean an "appalling waste of capital resource and community opportunity". The other options look at the possible reintroduction of theatre, either through the existing Redgrave site or through a new theatre on an alternative site. A re-branding exercise would be likely to take place under the working title of The Cobbett Theatre, and any building used or constructed may boast an adjoining repertory cinema. Despite complications with the East Street development plans, the report argues that the retention of the Redgrave would be the most economic course as start-up costs would be considerably lower than the estimated £4 million price tag of a new building. Suggestions are made regarding funding and operation if a theatre were to be opened in Farnham, based on successful models used in other theatres. By collecting ticket receipts for a minimum number of shows as a subscription fee, it is reasoned that it could generate funds to cover its initial and ongoing expenses without resort to WBC's coffers. Furthermore, a suggestion that the building is operated under a licence rather than a lease is said to allow WBC to escape from any commitments as a landlord if the project fails. A recommendation is also made for a six-strong core of professional actors and management supported by a strong volunteer base following the success of a similar system at the Maddermarket theatre in Norwich. Ultimately, the report goes on to say, "the loss of a purpose-built theatre in Farnham denies past community commitment and legitimate ambitions for the future of the town". FTA chairman Anne Cooper said: "We were delighted to read that a theatre is thought viable in Farnham. We had challenged the consultants to demonstrate a theatre would not rely on public money and are very pleased they have been able to do so. "Admittedly we were surprised at the solution, using a core of professionals surrounded by volunteers, but after looking at it more closely, it seemed ideal. "A small theatre can't afford to keep hiring in expensive productions and casts, especially in competition with places like the Haymarket Theatre in Basingstoke. "Besides, it was a habit of buying in shows that led to the Redgrave closing in 1999. It couldn't maintain a consistently high standard that way, and alienated audiences, who weren't getting what they were used to. "We may already have the necessary core of actors to make this system work in the New Farnham Repertory Company. "I can't guarantee they would be chosen, and hopefully there would be a situation of rolling individuals within the group to prevent it becoming repertory, but they seem to be ahead of the queue at this moment." Presentations are being planned by Michael Holden after the full report has been made available from the FTA, which is hoping to send copies to interested parties in the next fortnight. • To order a copy (at a charge), call Anne Cooper at the FTA on 01252 716394.
