Williams calls for Bristol businesses to get behind the Old Vic

2.24.00pm BST (GMT +0100) Mon 8th Oct 2007

Stephen Williams MP has today welcomed the news that the Bristol Old Vic will reopen for two productions by the students of the Old Vic Theatre School and has also called upon Bristol businesses to support the historic theatre to ensure its survival in the long term.

Stephen Williams commented:

"It is great news to hear that the Old Vic will once again be opening its doors to the public after its closure in August. I have held an interest in the theatre for many years - serving on the board of governors during the mid-nineties - and like many people in Bristol I have been saddened by the difficulties that the company has faced in recent months."

"While the upcoming productions by the Old Vic Theatre School are certainly a cause for celebration, we should not be complacent. There is serious uncertainty about the long term future of the theatre and more funding is still needed. Some of this is being provided by the Arts Council, but this will not be enough. Private sector contributions are needed and I would ask Bristol businesses to do whatever they can to help secure the future of the Old Vic."

"The Old Vic is one of the cultural and historical jewels of Bristol. Its Theatre Royal premises on King Street have been a working theatre since 1766, making it the oldest continuously operating theatre in the country. For all this to come to an end now would be a tragedy for Bristol."

Details of how to offer support are available on the Bristol Old Vic website: http://www.bristol-old-vic.co.uk/.