Bradford theatre calls in administrators

BRADFORD-BASED The Priestley Centre for the Arts has called in administrators after struggling with financial problems.

Administrators Julian Pitts and David Wilson are confident that the arts centre, which is a registered charity, can continue to operate until its long-term future can be secured.

Mr Pitts and Mr Wilson, of the Leeds office of business rescue, recovery and restructuring firm Begbies Traynor, were called in as administrators, following continuing trading difficulties.

Mr Pitts said: “The Priestley has made a tremendous contribution to the arts in Bradford over many years. It is in constant use by schools and arts groups with studio, workshops and a bar all popular with local people. It is run on a voluntary basis and has struggled financially since grant funds ceased some years ago. However, it is fundamentally sound and, therefore, we are hoping to secure its future by attracting new management and re-structuring finances.”

The theatre, in the heart of Bradford's Little Germany, remains open and is hosting a number of performances in the run up to Christmas. It also has a busy season planned for the new year. Seasonal highlights include Dracula Spectacula, Pieces of Pinter, Frost and Fire, and Pinocchio.

Tom Sandford of The Priestley said: “Whilst the administrators carry out their work, it is very much business as usual, continuing the theatre's long tradition at the centre of Bradford's arts community.”

The Priestley has its origins in the early 1930s when Bradford Civic Theatre was founded as a branch of the Leeds Civic Theatre. It changed its name to Bradford Playhouse & Theatre in the late 1950s and was re-named The Priestley Centre for the Arts in the mid 1990s, coinciding with its refurbishment following a fire. The name reflects the fact that the company's first honorary president was J B Priestley. His son Tom Priestley is the current president. The 290 seat theatre retains its Art Deco façade and auditorium but was re-equipped after the 1990s fire with modern equipment.

Begbies Traynor is part of the Begbies Traynor Group, an AIM-listed specialist professional services and accountancy group.