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University to close its theatre after 50 years

Charles HeslettYorkshire, Bradford
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Artistic director Dr Shabina Aslam said she had been left "devastated" by the news of the closure

A theatre that was opened by celebrated playwright Sir Alan Ayckbourn has announced its closure days before its 50th anniversary.

Theatre in the Mill on the University of Bradford campus opened in November 1976, but will close permanently in March.

The 100-capacity venue has been facing "significant financial pressures" according to the university, which said it wanted to focus its resources "where they can have the greatest impact on students, teaching and research".

Artistic director since 2023, Dr Shabina Aslam, said: "I'm heartbroken, it's completely devastating to think about all those artists that we've nurtured and worked with."

A pale yellow Yorkshire stone building with a Theatre in the Mill sign on one of its walls. There is a tree with yellowing leaves in the foreground.
The theatre is based in an old mill on campus

She added: "We will of course meet all the current commitments, but it's the effect on all the future generations."

Four members of staff will lose their jobs, saving the university around £200,000 per year.

Their salaries, plus the use of the building and IT systems, are covered by the university, with match-funding from Arts Council grants.

Dr Aslam said that without the university's support, the theatre could not continue to operate.

She said under her tenure one of the theatre's focuses had been "on people of colour" and creating a safe space for them to work in.

A shot over the shoulder of a woman who has her hand on a old flyer with Theatre in the Mill printed at the top in red writing
Dr Aslam with a flyer from one of the theatre's earliest shows

A university spokesperson said it had "reluctantly" taken the decision to close the theatre.

"Like many in the higher education sector, Bradford faces significant financial pressures.

"We have a responsibility to focus our resources where they can have the greatest impact on students, teaching and research.

"Theatre in the Mill has played an important role in the university's cultural and creative life for 50 years, supporting students, artists, audiences and community partners.

"We must assess all university activities and facilities against their long-term sustainability and their ability to deliver value for the university."

An A4 size piece of paper with Press Statement at the top and printed words underneath. It has been stuck to a wall using four pieces of red tape at each coroner.
A flyer from 1976 announcing the opening of the theatre by playwright Alan Ayckbourn

The spokesperson added: "We recognise that this decision will be disappointing for many people who care deeply about Theatre in the Mill.

"We remain committed to working with partners across the city to support culture, creativity and opportunity for future generations."

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