A theatre well-known amongst those who operate tours to the area has appealed for help to stay in business, reports regular CBW contributor Alan Payling.
Many operators will be familiar with the Babbacombe Theatre and its professional variety shows that have attracted coach parties from all corners of the UK, and thousands of coach passengers have enjoyed an evening at the theatre which has made their holidays all the more memorable. The theatre is now at risk due to the lockdown and needs help to stay alive for future visitors. It does not receive any subsidy from public funds, which means it is reliant on its own efforts to stay afloat. It is hoped shows will start again in early November and through the Christmas period, but due to the lack of income, the theatre has launched a crowdfunding appeal to raise £10,000 which will help to keep it open.
“All those involved acknowledge that it is a very big ask at the moment to call upon people in the coach trade to put their hands in their pockets to help the Babbacombe Theatre, but now that the wheels of the coach holiday industry are starting to turn again, a contribution from people in the industry is, in the long term, a chance to help a business that is complementary to their own,” said Alan.
“If the coach trade wants to see that mutually beneficial relationship continue, then now is most certainly the time to help out. Everyone in the coach trade, whether that be operators, drivers and passengers will be all the poorer if we lose the Babbacombe Theatre.”
