Outlook Uncertain For Tabard Theatre Over Christmas

Closed for business as lease comes to an end

The immediate future of the Tabard Theatre is uncertain as it moves into the Christmas period.

A notice has been posted on its door for the attention of Pulling Focus (who run the theatre), referring to the Spirit Pub Company, "retaking possession" of the premises at 2, Bath Road. It also notes that the fourteen-year long lease expired at the end of November.

The notice, which is dated 7 December, states that items left in the theatre must be removed from the theatre by 23 December.

The 96-seat theatre was run by Pulling Focus, and it is understood the company has not renewed its lease.

Sources close to the theatre remained tight lipped about any future plans but it is understood that the management of the pub are very keen to see it remain as a theatre running both plays and musicals but also its successful one night comedy gigs.

The next appearances listed are for January, for comedy acts, including an appearance by Jon Culshaw in January. Avalon Promotions, the comedy agency behind Al Murray, Russell Howard and Chris Addison, has booked a season of stand-up comedians as they prepare for the Edinburgh Fringe Festival. Big names in British comedy, including locals Al Murray and Darragh O Briain, have performed there prior to tours, as they try out new material.

The challenge for any new management will be to attract commercially viable shows in difficult economic times for the pub theatre industry. However a source hinted that they were hopeful that the Tabard could continue to be a viable proposition.

It has notched some commercial successes, and hosted appearances ranging from actress Janet Ellis, to a play about Marie Curie by Alan Alda (MASH), Christmas pantomimes, and comedy events, as well as events for the Chiswick Book Festival, and political debates prior to the election and the EU referendum.

The Tabard Theatre website describes the outfit as is an independent, professional producing and receiving house that receives no government funding.

Recently the Tabard asked for volunteers to help out in all areas, ranging from box office, to stage hands and electrical and technical assistance.

The adjacent pub is Grade II*-listed and is an Asset of Community Value.

December 21, 2016