Threat to future of Rotherham’s Civic Theatre

Council leader Cllr Chris Read said the authority could not afford to continue subsidising the venue as it looks to save more than £20 million over the next year.

It comes just weeks after the council said it could cut up to 300 jobs, which unions said would have an effect on day-to-day services.

Cllr Read said: “Like all local authorities, we are in a difficult financial position. “The challenge posed by the government is huge.

“Our priorities are to take care of our vulnerable residents and look after the local economy. Everything else is under scrutiny.

“However, the Civic Theatre has a positive track record of increasing income, so we believe it can be self-funding within two years. We will be working hard to make sure this happens.”