New touring alliance to confront issues facing mid-scale regional theatres

A new initiative has launched to address the challenges facing theatres in towns and smaller cities across the UK.

The Local Theatre Touring Alliance (LTTA) brings together venues, producers, policymakers and funders in an effort to strengthen local theatre infrastructure and support its long-term viability.

Theatres in smaller urban centres often face specific issues such as rising operational costs, difficulty recruiting skilled staff, and ageing buildings. At the same time, there are fewer high-quality productions touring to these areas, limiting programming options and audience access.

The LTTA’s initial focus is a nationwide survey of venue managers. The aim is to build a clearer understanding of the pressures these venues are facing and to explore potential solutions. The survey will gather evidence to support future models for touring and collaboration across the sector.

Adam Knight, chief executive of Blackpool Grand Theatre, said the initiative is a way to ensure regional voices are included in national discussions. “Theatres like ours are vital parts of their communities, yet too often they are overlooked in national conversations,” he said. “The Local Theatre Touring Alliance is about bringing people together to protect and strengthen local theatre for future generations.”

Katie Town, executive director of Theatre Royal Wakefield, echoed this call for collaboration. “Mid-scale venues are facing unprecedented challenges, but there is also huge potential if we work collaboratively,” she said. “The survey is a critical first step in gathering the honest insights we need to develop new touring models and advocacy strategies.”

Participation is free and open to anyone in the sector.