Like all theatres, the Orange Tree had to close down during the lockdowns. Alex Jones, Development and Communications Director, writes about how tough the last couple for years has been for an independent theatre
Along with theatres across the country, the Orange Tree (OT) closed its doors in March 2020. At times of societal crisis we have historically turned to theatre for solace, but even this was forbidden. A ‘dark’ theatre is a very empty place indeed. Furthermore we were at threat of permanent closure; an independent producing theatre (all our shows are homegrown, without regular support from Arts Council England), we are critically reliant on ticket sales and donations.
It is with enormous gratitude that we thank all our Members and supporters of our Survival and Recovery Funds, which with the Job Retention Scheme and the Culture Recovery Fund, sustained us through an unprecedented 15 months’ closure. With CRF funding enabling staff to return, albeit remotely, we immediately set about transforming the way we work to ensure we could once again share with audiences the award-winning productions for which we are renowned.
We’d always wanted to live-stream performances at the Orange Tree. As an intimate, in-the-round space with audience on all sides, we had to innovate to convey the OT experience and in March 2021, live-streamed performances of six new, short commissions. OT On Screen was live.
Once allowed, we swiftly re-opened our transformed auditorium with a plethora of safety protocols and joyfully welcomed audiences to our Recovery Season: a classic Orange Tree mix of sparkling rediscoveries and compelling new and contemporary plays. We were back. Since restrictions have eased, we’ve experienced the breadth of audience response from those raring to return, eagerly demonstrating their support by booking for every show, to those who for various valuable reasons are simply not ready.
The theatre remains socially distanced and our first few months, with lower audience figures than we had hoped, have been challenging; but as we emerge from the shadow of Omicron, we’re seeing a renewed enthusiasm in audiences and demand is once again on the up. For those still not able or willing to return, we are committed to livestreaming our performances for the whole season.
As we look to the future, although we still have a way to go, we are optimistic. In March, we open Two Billion Beats, a Orange Tree commission by playwright Sonali Bhattacharyya with whom we have a long association, and we’re excited to share this witty and upbeat story with audiences. But we can’t do it without you – as we emerge from this crisis, please show your support for your local theatre and come along in-person or online. And with the Love Your Local Theatre promotion, now’s the perfect time to rediscover the theatres on your doorstep.
Alex Jones, Development & Communications Director
Tom Fool: 12 Mar – 16 Apr (see more details on What’s On, page 54.
Upcoming productions include The Misfortune of the English (25 Apr – 25 May) and The False Servant (8 June – 23 July). Book tickets at orangetreetheatre.co.uk.
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