Scottish theatre trust calls for urgent funding

A Scottish theatre is calling for urgent funding to secure its future after the mothballing of its council-owned venue.

East Lothian Council has told the Brunton Theatre Trust in Musselburgh that its home for the last 30 years, Brunton Hall, has been deemed to be beyond affordable repair due to significant structural issues, with demolition now the council’s preferred option.

The building was initially closed in 2023 following the discovery of RAAC.

Since the closure, Brunton Theatre Trust has continued to present a programme of events at venues across East Lothian.

But Michael Stitt, chair of the trust, said that the indefinite closure of Brunton Hall “places us in a very difficult position”.

He added: “Due to lost income from the unexpected closure in 2023, a delay in the council’s decision making and a 50% funding cut by the council this year, we have already had to use our carefully managed reserves to help keep the show on the road.”

“We urgently need funding from the Council, Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government, as well as support from our audiences, to ensure we can continue to deliver the same level of high-quality arts, culture and entertainment events and education projects throughout 2025 and beyond.”

Stitt said that everyone at the trust was “deeply saddened” at the loss of Brunton Hall and that it supported calls for a “purpose-built home that places arts and entertainment provision at the heart of the region as a priority”.

Since the closure last year, the trust has presented its programme at a range of venues in East Lothian including Haddington Corn Exchange, Loretto Theatre and Northesk Church.

It has also continued to work with and support local amateur and community performance groups.