THREAD: The theatre sector is primed to play a crucial part in the UK’s recovery: nourishing civc life, re-enlivening communities, creating jobs and fuelling local economies. So here’s why Govt should #SupportUKTheatre IN THEIR OWN WORDS... (1/10)

Yesterday @OliverDowden said “Theatres are the soul of our nation and a linchpin of our world-beating creative industries” echoing @BorisJohnson “a passionate supporter of the arts" for who "investment in the creative economy is crucial to sustaining the wellbeing of the nation”

Chancellor @RishiSunak recently told the Commons: “The creative industries play an incredibly important part of our economy in this country, and they are also one of our great exports around the world and add to our soft power.” (3/10)

Health Secretary @MattHancock goes further: “You might get by in a world without the arts, but it isn’t a world that any of us would choose to live in.” He sees culture as “life-enhancing,” “essential to our health and wellbeing… bringing meaning and dignity to our lives" (4/10)

Indeed, every Govt minister who has spoken on the subject has argued that UK theatre is an economic growth engine and vital civic force. That after the pandemic theatre has much to offer, bringing people together and nurturing their physical and mental health. (5/10)

With support theatre can be a beacon once again. But at this pivotal time for our sector, yesterday’s release of a “roadmap” without dates or meaningful details has demoralised everyone I’ve spoken to, telling us nothing of practical use. (6/10)

A survey of 40,000 theatregoers reports less than 20% would attend if theatres were to open now. If audiences did attend, 1 metre social distancing would still mean that venues can’t exceed 30% capacity. Most need in excess of 60% capacity just to cover their costs. (7/10)

To avoid irreparable financial damage, imminent theatre closures and devastating job losses the sector needs a “not before” date for meaningful reopening and an urgent Govt commitment of support beyond the emergency funding scheme already offered by Arts Council England (8/10)

A temporary Govt fund to invest across organisations and freelancers can ensure theatre's survival. A scheme which harnesses the joint potential of the commercial + subsidised sectors and from which in turn Govt can benefit from any profits. Not a hand out but a hand up (9/10)

An offer to become partners in one of the fastest growing businesses in the UK economy which serves communities nationwide. If Govt truly believes in the value of the arts to the wellbeing of the nation then it must replace words with action. #SupportUKTheatre (10/10)