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Improv community 'devastated' by theatre closure

News imageTara Judah The image shows a group of nine improv actors taking part in The Studio Show at Bristol Improv Theatre. Some are posing, some smiling. A blond-haired woman to the left of the image is holding a clapperboard with The Studio Show written on itTara Judah
Bristol Improv Theatre hosted shows, workshops, comedy and film nights

A city theatre has announced its closure with immediate effect due to its "very difficult and precarious financial position".

The Bristol Improv Theatre, which was first established in 2012, has hosted numerous productions, workshops and events, hiring staff, performers, freelancers and volunteers.

In a statement posted online, the trustees said: "Following a professional review of the theatre's finances and extensive consideration of the available options, the charity was determined to be unsustainable."

Freelance improv tutor Tara Judah worked at the theatre and told the BBC the news was "devastating" and "financially upsetting".

"They still owe me money for the last couple of months of teaching, and I do not know if I will be paid now," she said.

"I have the loss of future work, I have children, I have a mortgage to pay, and so the loss of work is not much short of devastating because I have to scramble to find some other work."

The BBC has contacted Bristol Improv Theatre for a response.

In a statement posted on its website, the board of trustees admits money is owing: "We recognise that some people may be owed money by the theatre.

"Further information on how claims can be submitted and considered will be provided over the coming weeks."

News imageTara Judah Tara sits on stage, hugging her knees to her chest. Her blond hair is tied up, with pieces of hair coming loose at the front. She wears a blue-and-cream striped dress and has bright red lipstick on. She is smiling slightly.Tara Judah
Tara Judah says she is waiting to hear if she will be paid for her work at Bristol Improv Theatre

Timon Singh, the founder of the Bristol Bad Film Club, hosted events at the Improv Theatre for almost eight years and told the BBC he was saddened by the news.

"It was an accommodating and affordable venue where you could build an audience," he said.

"It's incredibly important to have places like this. If you want to build a vibrant cultural sector - whether it's film, comedy, stand-up or improv - it's crucial."

Singh, who is now the director of the Forbidden Worlds Film Festival in Bristol, added: "You need these kinds of venues for up-and-coming talent to get their start.

"If a city only has very expensive large venues to put on events, then it's hard for anyone to start out."

The theatre's statement also said that all its remaining events, classes and activities are now cancelled unless those taking part are contacted directly and informed otherwise.

"People will keep making things together, performing together and building new spaces for improv and comedy in the city," it said.

"That is part of the legacy of the Bristol Improv Theatre."

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