New Alliance Formed by Regional Independent Theatres

Five theatres launch Regional Independent Theatre Alliance at Westminster

On 10 June 2026, Leeds Heritage Theatres joined four other regional independent theatres to launch the Regional Independent Theatre Alliance (RITA) at a Parliamentary Reception held in Westminster. The alliance aims to raise awareness of the contribution of independent, not-for-profit regional theatres to the UK’s cultural and economic landscape.

About the Regional Independent Theatre Alliance (RITA)

RITA is a national alliance formed by five founding members: Birmingham Hippodrome, Leeds Heritage Theatres, Marlowe Theatre Canterbury, Newcastle Theatre Royal, and Norwich Theatre Royal. These theatres describe themselves as operating a “third way” model, distinct from both subsidised and purely commercial theatres. They are mission-driven, financially self-reliant, and contribute significantly to local economies without relying on day-to-day public subsidy.

Key Asks Presented to Government

At the launch event, RITA presented three main requests to the government:

• Formal recognition of the independent not-for-profit theatre model within policy and funding frameworks.
• Establishment of a regular data-sharing relationship with government departments to accurately measure the sector’s contribution.
• Support for a national co-investment strategy, including a matched government capital fund of up to £10 million per venue over five years.

Economic and Cultural Impact

RITA shared data demonstrating the scale of its members’ impact:

• More than 8,000 theatre seats across the five venues.
• Over 2.6 million annual attendances.
• Gross income exceeding £83 million.
• A projected five-year economic impact of £781 million.

The alliance also highlighted the wider economic benefits, including:

• £52 million generated annually in audience spending for local businesses such as restaurants, pubs, taxis, and hotels.
• More than £27 million contributed through local supply chains.
• Support for over £10 million of Arts Council England-funded touring work through their venues.

Statements from Theatre Leaders

Dame Caroline Dinenage MP, Chair of the Culture, Media and Sport Committee and sponsor of the reception, said the alliance demonstrates how independent theatres are self-sustaining community pillars that drive growth outside London.

Stephen Crocker, Chief Executive and Creative Director of Norwich Theatre Royal, emphasised the need for government recognition of the “third way” model and called for capital co-investment to sustain it.

Marianne Locatori, Chief Executive of Newcastle Theatre Royal, highlighted the theatres’ role as cultural hubs that support jobs, skills, and community pride, while calling for support to maintain their buildings.

Deborah Shaw, Chief Executive of Marlowe Theatre Canterbury, noted that RITA theatres combine commercial success with public value, providing access schemes, vocational training, and community engagement.

Jon Gilchrist, Artistic Director and CEO of Birmingham Hippodrome, stressed the importance of long-term investment plans to maintain venues and artistic ambition.

Vicky Cheetham, CEO of Leeds Heritage Theatres, described independent regional theatres as vital infrastructure enabling subsidised productions to reach communities and urged recognition and investment to sustain this role.

About the Founding Members

• Birmingham Hippodrome: An independent charity with no regular public funding, hosting over 600,000 visitors annually and operating a New Musical Theatre department.
• Leeds Heritage Theatres: Operates Leeds Grand Theatre, City Varieties Music Hall, and Hyde Park Picture House, welcoming over 450,000 visitors annually and supporting national touring.
• Marlowe Theatre Canterbury: A large-scale regional theatre with a 1,200-seat main house, offering a diverse programme and significant work with young people.
• Newcastle Theatre Royal: A grade one listed venue delivering world-class theatre and community engagement programmes across the North East.
• Norwich Theatre Royal: The largest arts organisation in the East of England, presenting a year-round diverse programme across three venues.

Background

The alliance previously contributed evidence during the COVID-19 pandemic and helped inform the UK Government’s £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund in 2020. RITA is also part of a wider Independent Performing Arts Group that includes London venues such as Donmar and Shakespeare’s Globe.

For more information, visit the Leeds Heritage Theatres website.