UPDATE: The Byre shuts its doors on a frosty economy

Update 4pm 26 January: The Byre has released a statement explaining why they sought advice on going into liquidation. Despite “Huge efforts” to secure a solid income, including “some £375,000 in grants and donations during 2012” and healthy ticket sales, the theatre has been unable to cover its running costs. It goes on to say that the Board “has, of course, explored all other possibilities, including consultation with Creative Scotland and Fife Council, but there was no alternative to liquidation.” Alternatives are, however, being looked into by the students and townsfolk of St Andrews. The Facebook campaign Save the Byre Theatre had over 1,700 supporters as of 4 pm today.

St Andrews’ much-loved local theatre, The Byre, is likely to go into liquidation the BBC reported yesterday.

Despite being reopened by none other than Ever to Excel star, Sean Connery (who has also played James Bond) after its £5.5million revamp in 2001, The Byre has since struggled under the yoke of budget cuts. The theatre, which played host to student hits HAIR and Party last semester, has also been unable to put on its own productions.

The Stand’s Theatre Editor and Mermaid, Joanna Alpern, described the news as “shocking and upsetting”: “I wish there was something we could do. Only last week The Stand was contacted and asked to review this semester’s shows. I thought it was a rumour; I just didn’t want to believe it!”

It seems Joanna’s sentiment reflects the majority of students’, as Facebook today is ablaze with publicity for a group named ‘Save the Byre Theatre’.

The University’s Director of Representation as well as student comedy star and actress, Amanda Litherland, told The Stand, “I am so sad that this wonderful theatre is closing, and it just highlights the importance of funding for the creative arts. As a student The Byre has provided me with so many opportunities to watch and perform… It has played a huge role in my life in St Andrews. I don’t know exactly what we can do but I’m determined to save this brilliant theatre. #Save The Byre!”

The St Andrews Town Hall will replace The Byre as this year’s venue for the Fife Jazz Festival, which runs from 1^st to 3^rd February.

This is a sad day for the St Andrews economy, community and the university’s budding theatrical stars alike.

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