Acclaimed Scottish theatre trust calls for public support to keep the show on the road

High profile performers and fans are among those supporting a call to help keep the ‘show on the road’ for the Brunton Theatre Trust in its 30th anniversary year.

Article Source: The Brunton
Last Updated: 2 October 2024 15:02

As it delivers a jam-packed autumn programme of enthralling creative events and educational projects, the Brunton Theatre Trust is calling for support from funders and the public to help them through a challenging financial landscape.

From Covid restrictions and the unexpected closure of its purpose-built performance spaces at the council-owned Brunton Hall following the discovery of RAAC in 2023, the trust based in East Lothian has repeatedly bounced back to ensure its audiences can continue to enjoy the very best theatre, music, dance, comedy, film and participatory events. However, this perfect storm of events, set amidst the current financial crisis, now means that the charity’s future is uncertain, and they urgently need support from funders and the public to ensure their long-term survival.

Michael Stitt, Chair of Brunton Theatre Trust said: “Our incredibly resilient team has navigated around the restrictions and unexpected closures at the much-loved Brunton Hall to ensure audiences continue to be entertained and enriched through a variety of events and educational initiatives. This autumn season alone The Brunton is hosting performances from the Royal Northern Sinfonia, Still Game comedians Mark Cox & Jane McCarry, soloists Katherine Bryan and Timothy Orpen from the RSNO, Talon – The Best of the Eagles, the much-loved Brunton pantomime, and more!

“However, as we operate on a reduced income while our main venue remains closed and East Lothian Council decided to reduce our funding by almost 50% this year, we have unexpectedly had to use a large amount of our carefully managed reserves to keep going.

“We are now in a very difficult financial situation and urgently need support from East Lothian Council, Creative Scotland, the Scottish Government, and the public 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.

“The public can support us by donating, joining our Friends scheme, booking tickets to enjoy our fantastic programme of events and telling local councillors and others how important our Trust is to them.

“We are asking East Lothian Council to restore the level of funding we need to continue as a matter of urgency. As the county’s main cultural provider, it is vital we build on the success of the past 30 years. Less funding and RAAC have been cruel blow to this cherished East Lothian institution. We must have the same support that we have had from the council over the years to ensure the next 30 years are just as successful.

“We are awaiting a funding decision from Creative Scotland’s Multi Year Fund, which is vital in supporting our continuation for the next three years and we are looking at all fundraising options to ensure our sustainability for the future. This is an exceptionally difficult time for the arts and culture across Scotland and we need support from our funders and public now more than ever.”

Support from performers

The Brunton’s long-standing panto dame, Graham Crammond, who was presented with an Unsung Hero Award at The National Lottery’s Big Night of Musicals live on the BBC earlier this year, added: “The Brunton has been such a massive part of my life. It really is a joy to perform in their pantomimes and to see the audience get so much from it. I hope all those who have enjoyed our performances over the years make every performance a sell-out, so that we can continue to enjoy performances at The Brunton for many many years to come.”

Stand-up comedian, Craig Hill who is due to appear at the same Brunton venue on Saturday 8 February said: "I can’t wait to come back to The Brunton Theatre. It’s genuinely one of my favourite spaces to perform in and so well loved and well used by the locals. You can tell when a venue means a lot to a community and it’s always a joy to perform in a place like that. The team have done a phenomenal job of keeping the show on the road given all they have had to navigate around. The trust is a real asset to Scotland and East Lothian. I hope they will get lots of support, so that their fabulous programme can continue. It says a lot about how special a venue is when visiting performers love it as much as the people who live there.”

Tony Mills, former Artist in Residence at the Brunton and current Artistic Director of Dance Base said: "As well as presenting commercial theatre, world class music, film and community-led performances, The Brunton has been a regular supporter of the independent arts sector in Scotland, providing a vital platform while on tour, a space for production and partnering to help move projects forward. As an artist in residence at the Brunton for many years, I have been grateful for the opportunity to have a base and to be given time and support to develop ideas and projects. This has been invaluable to my growth as an artist, both through the support given, but also because it required raising my own game to work with a partner such as The Brunton.

“I really hope the organisation can continue to provide this kind of career changing support and remain an asset to the wider Scottish arts ecology. And I hope that audiences and funders will support it to continue for many years to come, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of the cultural landscape of East Lothian."

Louise Gilmour-Wills, Producer at the Catherine Wheels Theatre Company, which produces award-winning theatre for young people, said: "The Brunton is an incredibly important cultural organisation in East Lothian and must be cherished, both by funders and the community. Catherine Wheels have developed a huge amount of our work through collaboration with The Brunton, and presented this to audiences at Brunton Hall and other venues with the support of the Brunton team. We need organisations like the Brunton to continue so that artists can show their work, and entertain young audiences, their friends and families across the region."

School comment:
Samantha Mackay, Chair of Friends of Stobhill Primary School in Gorebridge said: “We fundraise so that our entire school can look forward to The Brunton Pantomime every year. It provides an excellent accessible local pantomime option for us and the performers always puts on such a fantastic show. It means so much to our Stobhill community. I wish the Brunton Theatre Trust every success in their fundraising appeal, so that our community can enjoy their performances for many years to come.”

Brunton Youth Theatre comment:
The Trust also provides an important lifeline for local children and young people. From giving them access to performances to delivering educational initiatives throughout the year. Describing the importance to his life, Brunton Youth Theatre member, Lewis Crawford, age 9 from Midlothian said: “I've been going to the Brunton Youth Theatre for years, and I love it. I really enjoy acting, going to the classes has really helped my confidence, and I enjoy meeting new people and making new friends. I also love going to see the pantomime with my school every year.”

The Brunton stands with Musselburgh community
Despite the challenges that lie ahead for the Brunton Theatre Trust, with enough funding and support, The Brunton Theatre Trust Chair Michael Stitt is hopeful that they can weather the storm and continue to make culture and entertainment accessible to their audiences, as they have for 30 years: “As we wait news of funding, alongside an update from East Lothian Council as to the future of the Brunton Hall building, we want to let the community of Musselburgh and beyond know that we stand with them, and to ask that the local authority’s future plans place arts and entertainment provision at the heart of the town.”

To support The Brunton theatre, you can donate, buy tickets or become a Friend of The Brunton at thebrunton.co.uk

Image: Graham Crammond

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Edinburgh News

Duck & Waffle Edinburgh Unveils Haunting Halloween Event with a Dramatic Twist

Duck & Waffle Edinburgh is partnering with The Scotch Malt Whisky Society and North Edinburgh Nightmares for a spine-chilling evening of storytelling, whisky, and elevated seasonal dining.

Cold Town House in Edinburgh crowned Best Beer Destination in Scotland

Edinburgh’s iconic castle-view bar has been crowned Scotland’s ‘Best Beer Destination’ for the first time at this year’s Scottish Beer Awards.

Loch Lomond Shores has got the October school holidays sorted

There's loads to see and do – from pet friendly days out to breakfast with dinosaurs, loch tours and much more!

Keela and Mountaineering Scotland launch new campaign

Keela, the Scottish outdoor clothing brand, and Mountaineering Scotland Launch ‘Within You’, an new three-month campaign, inspiring Confidence, Connection, and Adventure in the Outdoors!

Book Week Scotland 2025 programme announced

Scotland's national celebration of books, Book Week Scotland, returns from 17th to 23rd November and tickets are on sale now!

Dobbies donates Christmas trees to local communities

Dobbies Garden Centres is lifting community spirits this season with a Christmas tree donation across the country, in partnership with Needlefresh.

Community group for families effected by suicide say art can be empowering

With Friday 10 October marking World Mental Health Day, community group, Lothians Speak Their Name, have shared the ‘powerful’ effect that art has had since the passing of their loved ones.

Football legends lace up for 150 mile charity walk inspired by Marcus Stewart, Stephen Darby and the late Doddie Weir

Former Celtic and Scotland football heroes to join ex-player with MND on 150-mile March of The Day to raise funds to help tackle the disease.

First winners announced for GUITARGUITAR Scottish Music Awards

Amy MacDonald, Hue and Cry, Nathan Evans and The Saint PHNX Band, Skipinnish, Shay O'Dowd and James Emmanuel are among the first winners to be announced for the GUITARGUITAR Scottish Music Awards!

Step into stories of Scotland this October with Living History

Scotland’s colourful past bursts to life this October as Historic Environment Scotland (HES) returns with its popular Living History programme for the school holidays.

Amber restaurant joins forces with The Real Mary Kings Close for Halloween programme

This October, The Real Mary King’s Close, one of the UK’s top-rated experiences on TripAdvisor, partners with Amber Restaurant for a Halloween experience on the Royal Mile.

Scottish single mother turned her passion for protecting the planet into a royal range for Balmoral

Ten years ago Laura Thomas returned to the UK with two children and just £200. Now with a booming business to her name, this East Lothian entrepreneur is designing ranges for Balmoral Estate.

Autumn events at Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection

Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection have launched new offerings designed for cosy coastal retreats and joyful pre-festive celebrations.

Scottish Women and Girls in Sport Week launches to inspire the nation with Find Your Fit campaign

The Scottish Government's Women and Girls in Sport Week launches this week, celebrating the power of movement and encouraging women and girls of all ages to get active in ways that work for them.

Finnish Long Drink Breaks Fringe Records for Summerhall Arts

Lonkero, Finland’s iconic long drink, has made history at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe by serving a record-breaking number of pints at Summerhall’s courtyard - while raising vital funds.

Last call for supporters to share their Murrayfield Memories as centenary celebrations beckon

HUNDREDS of fans from Scotland and across the globe have been sharing their most treasured memories of Scottish Gas Murrayfield as the stadium prepares to mark its centenary year.

HIV ALOUD: RAISE THE CURTAIN

The Edinburgh Playhouse and Waverley Care are pleased to announce a new collaboration, HIV ALOUD: RAISE THE CURTAIN, an arts initiative to share stories of those living with HIV.

Unlimited adventures for less than a tank of petrol

With the October school holidays fast approaching, ScotRail has unveiled a new, affordable way for families to make the most of the break!

Jali Film Weekender announces Full Programe

Jali Collective is proud to reveal the full programme for the first ever Jali Film Weekender, taking place at Filmhouse, Edinburgh from 30 October – 2 November 2025.

Lead Casting announced for Mean Girls

Lorne Michaels, Crossroads Live and Sonia Friedman Productions are delighted to announce initial casting of the award-winning Mean Girls The Musical.

Cafe Calton Unveils Seasonal Evening Menu and Pre Theatre Dining Experience

Perched atop the iconic Calton Hill, Café Calton has unveiled its new Autumn/Winter Evening Menu, alongside a specially curated Pre-Theatre Dining Experience.

October at Virgin Hotels Edinburgh

From Cocktail Week to Artist in Residence, discover Virgin Hotels Edinburgh's events taking place in October!

Seachdain na Gaidhlig (World Gaelic Week) 2026 launches with rallying call to use it, or lose it

Seachdain na Gàidhlig will return in 2026, under the banner Use It or Lose It – and organisers are encouraging people across Scotland and the global diaspora to get behind the rallying cry.

Brits brewing up a storm: Macdonald Hotels reports coffee surge

Brits are now picking up the cafetière, with Macdonald Hotels & Resorts revealing a 10% rise in coffee sales across its 32 UK hotels and resorts in the past year.

Bonnie & Wild and Fierce Beer team up for craft bar residency

Craft brewery Fierce Beer shows appetite for Bonnie & Wild with launch of new bar residency and tailored food and drink pairings.

Local Charities and Communities at the Heart of Edinburghs Christmas 2025

Spreading Christmas cheer, Edinburgh’s Christmas offers over 8,500 free tickets to local community groups and charities.

Spooky season brings horror icons and vampire romance back to the big screen at Vue

Some of the latest horror blockbusters – alongside creepy classics, enchanting family favourites and the ever-popular Twilight Saga – will all be heading to Vue venues this Halloween.

Two Edinburgh Bakeries launch unique Macaron and Cake Tower

Mademoiselle Macaron and Mimi’s Bakehouse have announced a new collaboration which combines handcrafted French macarons with signature sponge tiers in a bespoke macaron and cake tower.

Full Line up Announced for Soundhouse Winter Festival

The 2025 Soundhouse Winter Festival returns from Thursday 27 November to Monday 1 December at the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh, thanks to support from The National Lottery through Creative Scotland.