 |
||
|
To subscribe to our newsletter, please add your name and email address below. You can easily unsubscribe later if you wish. Members' Newsletter June 2010:-Dear Members, We are at a very exciting time in the development of the Biggar Theatre Workshop. With the refurbishment of the Corn Exchange we have a unique opportunity to review the way we operate and ensure we are in a strong position to thrive over the next generation. Various planning and brainstorming sessions held over the last couple of years have resulted in a renewed vigour and clear vision for the way forward.
Firstly we have registered a new Company Limited by Guarantee with the charitable purposes and mission as follows:
To promote the advancement of education of the residents of Biggar and District, without distinction of race, religion or political or other opinions, through participation in the arts by:
In addition we have reviewed the structure of our Board and agreed some changes which we feel equip us better for our mission.
Management Group First we need a Management Group to look after The Corn Exchange as Biggar's Arts Venue. We are working towards a full all-year programme of visiting and resident arts activities which cater for a broad range of audience. This needs the support of a Programme Director; Treasurer, Secretary and a PR/Marketeer. Their roles will be to ensure the success of the Corn Exchange as an all year round arts venue. Artistic Group A separate group – The Artistic Group - will look after the BTW performing activities with a specific remit to encourage multiple shows and productions performed by new and more varied groups from across Biggar and district. The role of the board will be to advise, assist and build a team of support for individuals who wish to perform or direct but who need to be connected with a production team. Central to the success of this group will be the training of our members to fulfill multiple roles within the BTW – from technical, directing, production, music performance, acting etc. so that there is a pool of support when a new production is offered. These two groups will work together to ensure that not only the performing aspirations but also the management of the Venue are carried out effectively and professionally. This way the BTW will be able to sustain a greater number of productions, workshops and activities throughout the season which will help build and develop new membership and outreach.
CORN EXCHANGE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT UPDATE Biggar Corn Exchange is a Grade B listed building which was originally built in 1860. It is currently leased to Biggar Theatre Workshop from South Lanarkshire Council and has been used for many years as an amateur theatre. The Corn Exchange is a unique historic building which contributes significantly to the character of Biggar High Street which is why it is so important it is preserved and maintained to serve future generations. What will be developed in Phase 1?
South Lanarkshire Council and Biggar Theatre Workshop are working in partnership to complete a number of external and internal repairs essential for the building to remain operational, extend its life and improve its appearance.
The project is being developed in separate phases to tie in with external funding packages being secured. The first phase will address major essential repairs for the building to remain operational and to extend its uses by replacing the fixed seating in the theatre with raked seating creating a multipurpose hall and converting the dressing rooms into multi-purpose committee/ training rooms (they will still be used as dressing rooms, too). The refurbished facility should be completed and ready to be occupied by autumn 2010. Phase 1 includes repairs to roof, external stonework, windows and doors as well as internal refurbishment. Funding totalling over £500,000 for phase 1 has been confirmed with grants from the Town Centre Regeneration Fund, Heritage Lottery Fund and South Lanarkshire Council.
What is proposed for Phase 2
If successful, phase 2 will further extend the uses of the building creating an inviting entrance, bar, catering, toilet, backstage facilities, and further improving on DDA access. Funding for futures phases is currently being explored.
We’re all in this together Since the Special General Meeting in 2009, planning and monitoring of the changes have been led by the Board, on your behalf. We have tried, and will continue to try to keep all members up to date, through meetings, newsletters, and the two websites (Corn Exchange and BTW). If you want more information, please ask. We need your feedback, and we are anxious to hear your suggestions. To meet the challenges of a new Venue, further phases of development, increased productions and wider membership we need your ongoing commitment and support. Specifically we would like your help with setting up your new Standing Orders. Get More Involved We need new blood! Coming forward to volunteer your time, skills, talents – for administrative or organisational help with managing the Programme, new Production Directors, ideas and skills to lead workshops, practical help with Productions, audience attendance for visiting productions, new ideas or simply spreading the word amongst your friends and family. This is your BTW, and this is a perfect time to re-engage and take a more active part in shaping our future. www.biggartheatreworkshop.org.uk or call Mike Chad on 0771 029 8551
|
|
|