Havant theatre boss fears 'tough times' ahead following coronavirus losses

Sophie Fullerlove, director of The Spring Arts and Heritage Centre in Havant, says the coronavirus lockdown has led to a spike in the appreciation for the arts.

But this appreciation has no impact on the piggy banks or arts venues, as she predicts that The Spring will need to find £175,000 over the next three years to secure a long-term future, following a loss of income over the past couple of months.

All arts venues are currently closed in adherance to government guidelines.

Sophie said: ‘Appreciation for culture has really exploded, so it would be really nice if the government supported organisations like us.

‘There are lots of people that really cherish what we do, and I really believe The Spring has an important role to play in what we are going through.

‘We can entertain, but arts and culture can also really help people to process the tragedies – I really hope that as we look to the future when we can start to use public spaces again, we can really build on those connections.’

During lockdown, The Spring’s social media team has been posting online to keep people engaged.

This week, the centre has put an application for funding through to the Arts Council to keep things ticking over while the venue is closed.

But with no end in sight for social distancing measures, even once The Spring reopens it may not get to full capacity for some time.

‘I think two years down the line will be more difficult,’ Sophie admitted.

‘Over the next three years we will have to find £175,000. That’s the loss we are expecting to make in future years as a result of funding cuts and audiences not coming back to full capacity.’

Since its closure on March 17, 189 live performances or film screenings at The Spring have been cancelled, along with 175 workshops and 1,350 hours of community activities.