Jobs to be cut at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre as stage remains shut

The theatre would not confirm how many jobs it is looking to cut, but said a formal consultation period had begun.

The theatre has not hosted performances since it was forced to close under the first national lockdown last March.

It had been due to stage socially distanced shows over the Christmas period but these were postponed as the second wave hit.

Several other theatres, including Birmingham Hippodrome, have also announced redundancies as they struggle to cope with the lack of income despite the Government's furlough scheme and support packages for the arts.

A spokesman for Wolverhampton Grand said: "As we progress into 2021, and Covid-19 continues to dominate all aspects of life, the reopening date of Wolverhampton Grand Theatre remains uncertain.

"Producers and Promoters understandably remain cautious about presenting national tours, and the process of rescheduling is an ongoing challenge throughout the whole of the entertainment industry.

"This continues to have a very serious effect on the Grand Theatre business, which is now facing unprecedented and unsustainable financial pressures.

"In order to ensure the theatre remains financially viable, returns to full operation as and when possible, and is safeguarded for the future, the monthly fixed costs must be reduced. With zero regular income, theatre reserves are no longer able to sustain the current levels of expenditure.

"Since the onset of this pandemic, every possible support has been given to theatre staff, however this horrific situation has continued way beyond any expectation and there is now no option but to commence the process of reducing the theatre workforce.

"We are unfortunately therefore entering a period of formal consultation with staff which is clearly a very difficult and regrettable time for all concerned."