The All-Party Parliamentary Group for Theatre has elected new officers, with Ashley Dalton MP elected as Chair and Andrew Pakes MP elected as an officer. Baroness Barbara Keeley has been re-elected as Co-Chair and Simon Hoare MP has been re-elected as an officer. SOLT & UK Theatre will continue to provide the Secretariat.
At the meeting, members discussed key priorities for the theatre sector, with a particular focus on strengthening touring. The discussion included a presentation from Tom Bird, CEO of Sheffield Theatres, and Claire Walker, Co-CEO of SOLT & UK Theatre, on the opportunities and challenges facing touring productions and venues, including the need for Theatre Tax Relief to better recognise eligible touring costs.
The APPG for Theatre brings together parliamentarians from across both Houses to champion theatre, raise awareness of the sector’s contribution to communities and the economy, and consider the policy issues affecting theatres, producers, venues, workforces and audiences nationwide.
Ashley Dalton MP, Chair of the APPG for Theatre, said:
“I’m delighted to have been elected Chair of the APPG for Theatre, and I look forward to working with colleagues across Parliament to support this vital sector. Our first discussion on touring underlined the importance of live performance reaching audiences wherever they live, sustaining local venues and bringing people together.
Claire Walker, Co-CEO of SOLT& UK Theatre said:
“We warmly congratulate Ashley Dalton MP on her election as Chair of the APPG for Theatre. Touring is essential to the health and reach of the UK’s theatre sector, enabling productions to connect with audiences nationwide while supporting venues, freelancers and local economies. SOLT & UK Theatre is calling for Theatre Tax Relief to be revised so that eligible touring costs are properly recognised, giving producers greater confidence to take work around the country. We look forward to working with the APPG to make the case for the support touring needs.”
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