Agenda item

The Head of Community and Cultural Services submitted a report on the operational and financial information relating to the new Hertford Theatre.  The Artistic Director gave a short presentation on the refurbishment of the Theatre.  He explained that the new access, directly from the street, encouraged increased footfall.  He said that people were now coming to the venue to share cultural experiences and have a coffee.  Before and after photographs were shown of the main entrance, the River Room and the kitchen. 

The Artistic Director provided Members with an update on what events had taken place recently, including a highly successful live broadcast from Covent Garden Opera House of Macbeth.  Updates were provided on revenues generated.  He explained the work currently underway promoting the theatre with schools and how the theatre might provide a forum for presenting performances of examination set texts at both GCSE and A level.

In response to a query from Councillor E Buckmaster concerning new users, The Artistic Director said that from the figures on the database, 85% were new users.

Councillor P Ruffles congratulated Officers and Hertford Theatre staff on what he considered a tremendous transformation.  He referred to the difficulties of the HDOS (Hertford Dramatic and Operatic Society) now in competition with the Theatre’s professional dramatic performances.  The Artistic Director acknowledged the important role and function of the HDOS and its community relationship with Hertford.  He referred to the conversations which had taken place with the HDOS with a view to their integration and development at Hertford Theatre.

The Head of Community and Cultural Services referred to the Council’s dissatisfaction with some of the furniture and of ongoing conversations with the supplier.  Councillor J Mayes referred to the PA system.  Reassurances were provided that this issue was in hand.  Members’ concerns regarding the “pre show” food would be referred to the supplier. 

Councillor T Herbert referred to the absence of information and directions on the website.  He also sought clarification on the type of films which would be shown in the cinema.  The Artistic Director explained that the theatre would not be able to complete with the multiplexes in terms of blockbuster films, as the theatre could not screen them for long enough.  It was anticipated that the film programme would be diverse and that new markets would be explored.

Councillor N Symonds queried whether there could be liaison between the Rhodes in Bishop’s Stortford to share expensive performances.  The Artistic Director said that there was regular liaison with the Rhodes with a view that the two venues could try to find a complementary programme of work for a season, rather than sharing the costs of an individual artist.

Councillor P Ruffles queried the progress of the installation of the Micro Hydro Plant alongside the Theatre.  The Director of Customer and Community Services provided an overview.  He agreed to write to Members with a more detailed response.

The Chairman referred to the favourable variance of £61,113 set out in the report now submitted.

In response to a query regarding the cultural offer at the theatre in other languages, The Artistic Director explained that occasionally French films were being shown.  He had also been working with Disability Arts regarding a new play and exploring working with other communities.  It was acknowledged that the stage was not accessible to wheelchairs and this was being reviewed.

Councillor J Mayes raised the issue of childcare fees and credit card fees.  The Director of Customer and Community Services clarified the position.    

Councillor P Moore queried the statement that there were no shows on a Sunday and the consequences of that.  The Artistic Director explained the position. 

In response to a question regarding the use of volunteers , the Front of House Manager was able to report that a training programme was underway and a team of volunteers would be operating at the Theatre soon.

The Chairman, on behalf of Members thanked the Artistic Director and the Front of House Manager and praised them for their hard work in what he referred to as a success story.

The Committee received the presentation and noted the report.

RESOLVED – that the presentation be received and the report be noted.