Dundee theatre faces council funding cut

Dundee-based theatre Dundee Rep has said a cut in funding from the local council will result in a reduction of its offer to the local community.

The theatre is set to receive £286,000 from the council as outlined in its 2025/26 budget, down from £318,000 the two years prior.

Local press has reported the theatre reported a pre-tax loss of £667,000 in its most recent financial accounts, covering the year up to 31 March 2024.

Chief executive of the theatre, Liam Sinclair, says the cut is “deeply disappointing and will inevitably limit our ability to support those who need it most with a reduction to the offer we can make for local people”.

“At a time of increasing social isolation and a growing mental health crisis, the work we do to address social issues has never been more vital,” Sinclair added.

Dundee Council has responded by highlighting the cut is part of cost saving measures that are aiming to reduce council spending by £15m. 

Deputy council leader, Willie Sawers, said the budget strikes a balance between finding the savings required while investing in crucial services for the whole area.