Boston theatre director's local help plea
The chairman of a Lincolnshire theatre has said venues affected by Arts Council England funding cuts should seek help from their local community.
Graham Armour is from the Blackfriars Theatre in Boston, which faced closure after losing its funding three years ago.
The theatre was saved by a local campaign group, which now runs the venue on a voluntary basis.
Mr Armour said it was important to get the backing of the local community.
"It is important that theatres and concert halls get their local papers on side to make sure everyone knows that if they don't help and get involved their local facility will close," he said.
"We collected more than 5,000 signatures from people pledging their support when our theatre was faced with closure."
The venue is now run by a team of about 80 volunteers, with just two paid staff.
"We try to provide something for everyone in the community including high-brow theatre and ballet, right through to American wrestling," said Mr Armour.