The main arts venue in the north is facing its biggest challenge ever as a result of the coronavirus.
Eden Court Theatre in Inverness has just announced that it will be forced to remain closed until at least Monday June 1.
With 75 per cent of the income for the theatre, cinema and gallery coming from ticket sales, the situation presents a major threat.
And bosses are asking for the public’s support in these difficult times.
James Mackenzie-Blackman, chief executive of Eden Court, said: “This decision has not been taken lightly, but it is, of course, in order to restrict the spread of Covid19 and to follow guidance from government.
“The reality is, even if social-distancing measures are relaxed before this date the majority of all the productions and live events that were due to be on our stages before this time have been cancelled, postponed or rescheduled.
“If you have tickets for shows or film screenings between this updated period of closure: April 20 to June 1 – we will be in touch with you soon. Please bear with us.
“The current situation is probably the biggest challenge ever faced by Eden Court. Approximately 75 per cent of all our income is generated from ticket sales, our cafe/bar, restaurant and under canvas. That income, over the course of one week, totally stopped. Now more than ever we need your support. If you are able to, please consider making us a donation. All the information on how to do so is available on our website.”
Customers with tickets for shows during closure period will be contacted by the ticket sales team as soon as possible.
Tickets can still be purchased online at the website www.eden-court.co.uk for shows due to take place after June 1 as well as into 2021.
Under Canvas, Eden Court’s much anticipated and popular outdoor summer event in partnership with Feis Rois, which was scheduled to begin at the start of June, will now move to slightly later in the year. More details will be released as they are confirmed.
The venue, which sits on the bank of the River Ness, is the largest multi-arts venue in Scotland housing two theatres, two art-house cinemas, two dance studios, three visual art galleries and conference and meeting spaces.
