Cumbernauld Theatre Trust

Cumbernauld Theatre is a key element in encouraging creative and cultural thinking here in North Lanarkshire.

The curriculum for Excellence talks about shaping children’s minds through exploration, creativity and imagination. Exactly what the children gain from attending an early years performance at Cumbernauld Theatre. Imagine not having a local theatre you can support and not being able to take the children out in their local community. It would be catastrophic.

As a parent also my daughter would be so upset not being able to attend local story telling, the singing kettle and pantomimes here. This theatre is perfect for younger people as it’s not a big daunting environment and it’s very geared towards local families attending. I know lots of people who attend this theatre with their extended families to make ever lasting memories together – grandparents for example!

Creative Scotland should reconsider the implications of this outcome as the theatre brings creativity and culture to a valued community. It gives our young people somewhere to go to relate to stories, theatre and life events. It provides a place where there is something for everyone to enjoy without it breaking the bank. The staff always go above and beyond when we’ve been in; whether it be serving us food and drinks, saying hello or showing us in and out of the theatre. You always see a ray of smiling faces all round. The venue is simply a piece of art itself so let’s make that flourish isn’t of stopping an adventure that’s only just begun!

Adele Doolan, Nursery Teacher

The importance of theatres like Cumbernauld Theatre should not be underestimated. They are vital to their local communities in building grass roots interests in life-long theatre-going, as well providing unparalleled opportunities to directly engage with local people though participation in imaginative education and community activities. They sustain and build audiences for many different types of work and embed themselves in the hearts and minds of audiences and participants. Many bigger city venues that focus on ‘event’ programming that brings people to venues in large numbers, but less frequently, struggle to have anywhere near the same sustained impact on people’s lives.

Cumbernauld Theatre feeds and nurtures audiences and theatre makers of the future at a local level but it is also vital to the national infrastructure. Since moving to Lanternhouse, the company has sustained and developed relationships with many small and midscale producers, many of whom have used the opportunity to rehearse and/or launch their work at the venue, with the support and insight of a caring and skilled theatre staff. With the closure of several small-medium scale venues in Scotland in recent years – and the reduced or risk-averse programming of surviving venues due to financial constraints – it becomes ever more difficult for touring companies to plan and sustain tours in Scotland, particularly drama based work. For example, in 2023 I was involved in producing and creating a hugely successful tour of the Scottish contemporary classic ’Tally’s Blood’ by Ann Marie Di Mambro – co-produced by Perth Theatre, The Gaiety Theatre Ayr and Cumbernauld Theatre. Without the creative participation and financial contribution of Cumbernauld Theatre as a producing partner, this project would simply not have happened. At Cumbernauld Theatre the run was almost entirely sold out for a full week that offered 10 performances to Cumbernauld audiences – such was the effectiveness of the theatre in connecting with its local community. Cumbernauld Theatre over many years, and in particular recent years through the facility of a new purpose built theatre building, has played a hugely important role in creating opportunities for the freelance theatre community. Its unique and highly creative experiment in democratising the availability of opportunities for freelance artists is unparalleled in Scotland. It is still a work in progress that has demonstrated enormous potential, but without a regular and appropriate level of funding this initiative will be killed stone dead. It is vitally important that our funding bodies recognise the unique contribution that Cumbernauld Theatre makes, and other similar venues that are not situated in major cities make, to the creative strength of our industry. Without them we are much poorer and significantly weakened as a creative force and our existing and future audiences are very poorly served.

Ken Alexander, Theatre Director

Cumbernauld has suffered terribly since Covid, we’ve had umpteen live music venues close, without Cumbernauld Theatre we have no cinema, no music venue, no theatre and no shows or pantomime for our families. There is absolutely nowhere else locally to go. Weve enjoyed the panto the last few years, the small, diverse, creative productions are just brilliant and keep my family from 2yrs to 80yrs amused, a real treat for us all. Ive attended the cafe with the person that I support who is non verbal just because staff are welcoming, understanding, attentive and non judgemental. I’m really disappointed at Creative Scotland’s decision, it will impact all these independent, creative and diverse companies, myself & my family, and staff.

Linda Angely, Support Worker

We were shocked and saddened to learn that Lanternhouse Arts had not been successful in their multi-year funding bid to Creative Scotland. As a valued partner on our Captivate programme over the last 4 years, we have found them to be a dynamic, creative and locally engaged organisation. They have shown themselves to be an invaluable creative resource for the local community in North Lanarkshire as well as a home for artists to take risks in their practice and develop new ideas. They have been a great collaborative partner for Manipulate Arts owing to their artistic understanding of the sector we represent, their willingness to take risks on bold new work, and their genuine commitment to improve the part of the country that they are based in. Lanternhouse Arts is one of the few producing venues left in Scotland, and one of the only ones with a producing model which doesn’t centre a sole Artistic Director vision, creating opportunities for a range of perspectives and artists to influence the programme of work.

Dawn Taylor, Manipulate Arts

When you arrive as an audience member at the theatre or cinema, it’s like you have received a personal invitation to the venue. The staff are so attentive always looking out for anyone who needs a little extra help to fully enjoy the performance. This was something I experienced on a number of occasions with my elderly mother who was in a wheelchair. The staff checked how much mobility she had, asked if she wanted a regular seat, looked after the wheelchair, brought it back at the interval and again at the end. I attended a performance at the cinema with my wife and we were very very late and flustered. No problem, the front of house manager immediately figured what was happening, put us at our ease and escorted us personally into the cinema. I’ve been in many, many theatres and cinemas. There can be no warmer, more caring welcome available in any arts venue, anywhere.

Last year Sartorial Pictures was privileged to film a documentary on the making of ‘The Cottage that became a Theatre’, a show directed by Lawrence Crawford, that celebrates the People of Cumbernauld, still raw from their previous lives in Glasgow’s slums, who turned unused buildings into a thriving hub for the arts. At the heart of the show was The People’s Theatre Company, a group of very diverse experience and backgrounds, some seasoned performers and a number of first-timers on a big stage. At the show we witnessed the truly transformative nature of this community theatre, as a shy, uncertain actor felt, for the first time, the warmth of a capacity audience as it reacted to his own personal, heartfelt contribution. This was a big deal, and clearly would have had huge health-giving benefit for this individual beyond the confines of the theatre.  That community warmth and transformative capability is what Cumbernauld Theatre is all about. Creative Scotland must acknowledge its unique features so that it can continue to support and nurture the wellbeing of the people of Lanarkshire and beyond.

Doug Taylor

Cumbernauld Theatre, since its inception has been an exemplar and dynamo in the Scottish theatre ecology and history. It was an enlightened model for an enlightened time when enlightened town planners knew that new towns promising new lives to the working classes needed to build that promise around a cultural centre. The new Cumbernauld Theatre has in its short life stayed true to the ideal of finding new ways of bringing artists and audiences together, and created new opportunities for creatives and directors to build a programme that reaches deeply into many communities and widely to an audience that is not catered for in other spaces. Over the decades the theatre has produced and supported some of the most celebrated talent in Scotland through a range of community and professional productions. It is without any doubt one of the most important theatres in Scotland, supporting emerging and established artists,  backing freelancers in the development of their craft, and working at the centre of the touring circuit. It is a crucial part of the foundations of Scottish Theatre, and just because it doesn’t sit in a city centre doesn’t mean it is less worthy of support.

I trust that when Creative Scotland and the Local authority sit down and look at what they have they will find that they want to invest more than ever because they too can be enlightened by this jewel and the staff and community who hold it dearly.

Simon Sharkey, The Necessary Space
Former Artistic Director, Cumbernauld Theatre

Cumbernauld Theatre Lanternhouse is a vital resource to us living within its catchment. With culturally and community advantages that are sorley needed in cumbernauld. I attend the theatre at least once a month and find it a warm welcoming community space. This is the only theatre/cinema within Cumbernauld. My children both attended the community theatre which is fabulous for confidence and wellbeing. We cannot afford as a town to loose this highly thought of theatre.

Elsie Geelan

Since reopening at the Lanternhouse, Cumbernauld Theatre has become a crucial asset in the Scottish theatre ecosystem. When I was last there, opening an adaptation of Treasure Island, which had premiered at Cumbernauld Theatre and subsequently toured Scotland, there was a new show being created in the studio theatre, and another being rehearsed in the rehearsal rooms. I met countless people in the cafe having meetings and talking about new projects. Why is this? Simply put, Cumbernauld Theatre has opened its doors to the artists and been willing to take risks helping elevate people into main stage work. It has become a place where shows can rehearse and open before heading to tour around Scotland and beyond.

Without Cumbernauld Theatre, the people of North Lanarkshire are being deprived of the opportunity to see and participate in Scotland’s theatre culture. In a moment where Creative Scotland are choosing to fund more theatre companies to create work, it feels counterproductive to remove funding from one of the few places where that work can find an audience outside of Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Ross MacKay, Playwright

Cornerstone House Centre wishes to express its disappointment to hear of the news that Cumbernauld Theatre Trust’s application to Creative Scotland’s Multi-Year Programme has been unsuccessful.

For many years, Cumbernauld Theatre has been a vital cultural hub, enriching our community through outstanding artistic performances, inclusive creative programmes and meaningful engagement with people of all ages.

The theatre plays a crucial role in fostering creativity, social inclusion and educational opportunities within Cumbernauld. It provides a space for local artists to thrive, for young people to develop their talents and for audiences to experience high-quality arts and culture right at the heart of our town. Beyond entertainment, it serves as a powerful tool for community cohesion, wellbeing, and economic development.

The loss of funding for Cumbernauld Theatre Trust would be a devastating blow to our local area. It would limit access to the arts for many, particularly for those who rely on the theatre as a space for self-expression, learning and connection. At a time when communities need cultural and social lifelines more than ever, sustaining such an organisation should be a priority.

We urge all stakeholders to reconsider the impact of this funding decision and to work towards a solution that ensures Cumbernauld Theatre Trust can continue its invaluable work.

Craig Russell, Engagement and Development Officer, Cornerstone

Cumbernauld Theatre have been a key partner of Visible Fictions for the past few years, and integral part of an ever challenged touring infrastructure, a supporter of artists and creatives in work creation and a connector of people in North Lanarkshire  from a range of diverse communities.

To lose Cumbernauld Theatre will have a seriously damaging effect on Scotland’s touring infrastructure – losing a key venue as part of that sector is just unacceptable. As one of Scotland’s few producing theatres it is unbelievable that the company’s work would be undermined so deeply – especially at a time when the theatre community is trying to get back on its feet after years of turmoil, uncertainty and impacting circumstances upon audiences. Cumbernauld Theatre’s support for artists and work creation is genuine and solid – and they offer not only space, support and staff expertise but a passion and commitment that is always welcome. To lose this for individual artists and companies is truly improper. The organisation has demonstrably been building and rebuilding its audiences, its relationship with the community and establishing itself as a key centre in Scotland for work creation. As a relatively new building and and model, their vision will take time to be fully realised and yet it has demonstrated huge success in this area as is backed up by the feedback from artists and audiences.

As a partner of Visible Fictions, the theatre and staff at Cumbernauld have co-produced with us in an exemplary fashion, demonstrating professionalism and a desire to learn at all stages of our engagement. Their high quality practice shining through. In our work, they have always placed the audience’s and theatre communities’ experience first  – and their unique offering has enabled us to make and present work that Is both of the highest quality and nourishing for audiences. To lose this for us and others is devastating. Recent feedback given to us when creating work there sums up the venue’s importance:

“I was a regular at the old Cumbernauld Theatre growing up and loved it. I can only say how much we all enjoyed our first visit to the Lanternhouse on Saturday. The facility is impressive and very welcoming for all ages. The performance itself was absolutely magical (for young and old!) with an exceptionally talented cast.  We will most definitely be back and will be spreading the word that the Lanternhouse rivals any theatre facility in the major cities. Thank you.”

Creative Scotland needs to give further scrutiny to their decision about funding Cumbernauld Theatre and we stand at their shoulder in support.

Dougie Irvine, Visible Fictions

If Creative Scotland would like to have a creative Scotland then continued support of Cumbernauld Theatre is essential. Inclusive, accessible, friendly, multi facetted,community based, high quality varied artistic projects of all descriptions in a superb professional setting. What on earth is there not to like and support?

Stan Quirk

Scotland boasts one of the most vibrant musical communities in Europe – not only as performers but composers. This does not happen from nowhere. It comes from sharing skills and being allowed to explore artistic ideas. Especially in the forum of theatre. Cumbernauld Theatre was my first introduction as a composer for theatre in 1995. Thirty whole years later I return to Lanternhouse from working around the world -now as a musician with a US green card – to find the new theatre’s existence under threat. This is a blow to artists and audiences alike. Thinking of the future artists who may never flourish as I did. Please, Creative Scotland, reconsider.

Karen MacIver, Composer

I was, like lots of people, quite stunned to see Cumbernauld Theatre left off the regular funding list yesterday. Having had the good fortune of both creating work with and touring work to Cumbernauld Theatre in recent years, I know what a massive blow this is going to be, not only to the building and the amazing team but to the community that use the theatre. Cumbernauld is a town rich in theatre history and retains a strong, loyal audience, but the  theatre also serves a huge area across North Lanarkshire, and without regular funding support, the remaining option for that whole community, to continue to engage with the quality of theatre presented at Cumbernauld, is to travel to Glasgow or Edinburgh. This is, for a host of geographic and socio-economic reasons, simply not an option for the majority of this loyal, local audience and so therefore they are likely to simply miss out.

I know there was much to celebrate in yesterday’s announcements, I know it must be difficult to make decisions on this scale but I know the audience at Cumbernauld, I know what this theatre  means to them, I know they will be devastated at this news and I know they will be asking themselves why people feel they no longer deserve a theatre.

I think there has to be room for a review of this decision because, if not, I believe it puts a community at serious risk of being culturally cut adrift.

Gary McNair, Writer

As resident of Cumbernauld, former employee, participant and audience member, I have been delighted to see Cumbernauld Theatre negotiate a challenging few years, and come out the other side strong, vibrant and bursting with potential. The local authority has undertaken investment in a new purpose-built venue, accessible to all and well situated within the town. A wide-ranging programme and the addition of cinema have attracted new audiences. It is a busy place.

I am shocked and dismayed by Creative Scotland’s seemingly illogical decision to eliminate this cornerstone of Scotland’s cultural infrastructure from its funding portfolio. Cumbernauld Theatre has long been an integral part of Scotland’s cultural landscape, providing high-quality artistic experiences and vital community engagement.

This decision by Creative Scotland to deny essential funding threatens not just the theatre’s future but also the creative opportunities and social benefits it brings to the town and the region. I think I speak for many in our communities who would urge reconsideration of this decision.

Cumbernauld Theatre has consistently delivered artistic excellence. It has fostered new talent, championed diverse voices, and brought world-class productions to local and national audiences. The theatre’s commitment to high-quality programming and creative collaboration ensures that culture remains accessible to all, enriching lives through the power of storytelling and performance. The organisation is steered by a talented, experienced and forward-looking management team and board of directors and displays a clear vision for future development.

Cumbernauld Theatre plays an irreplaceable role in the community. It offers educational programmes, youth initiatives, and outreach projects that nurture creativity and confidence. Cumbernauld Theatre is more than just a performance venue—it is a cultural hub where individuals connect, learn, and grow.

I have been involved in many community theatre productions and am currently with the theatre’s People’s Company, a group for adults wishing to develop and learn new skills in theatre making. We are an extremely diverse bunch of people, ranging widely across age, gender, and ability, but we feel like a family and, through working alongside theatre professionals, have devised and staged shows, including our recent sell-out The Cottage that Became a Theatre, the story of the grassroots origin of Cumbernauld Theatre in the new town. Losing Cumbernauld Theatre would leave a gaping hole in my life and that of many others and would deny future generations the opportunity to enjoy, learn and be part of something truly life-enhancing.

Finally, Cumbernauld Theatre contributes to the local economy. As a major cultural institution, it attracts visitors, creates jobs, and supports surrounding businesses. The arts sector has been proven to drive economic regeneration.

North Lanarkshire Council’s premier venue, Motherwell Concert Hall, has been closed for some time. The closure of Cumbernauld Theatre would leave the 340,000 residents of North Lanarkshire even poorer in terms of cultural provision.

I would respectfully request that Creative Scotland reconsider its decision. Continued funding for Cumbernauld Theatre is not just an investment in the arts but in the wellbeing and prosperity of the people of Scotland.

Alison Russell

Congratulations to all those who were awarded regular funding yesterday, a monumental effort. As a small company with no regular staff we were not in a position to submit an application but we are very happy to see our friends and colleagues be supported and we hope that the process is somewhat streamlined in the future.

However we would also like to note our disappointment to Creative Scotland that Cumbernauld Theatre – a lynchpin of our tours over the years (and also a collaborator on our creation of Crocodile Rock) has not received funding. This seems extremely short-sighted as it is a new building with excellent facilities and is  a very well-supported theatre, our ticket sales in Cumbernauld were only matched by theatres in the big cities. It’s a vital resource and, whatever error Creative Scotland sees in their application, should be addressed and an opportunity to be put on the development funding path (at least) should be presented. To not support a new building, after so much investment, seems counter-intuitive and a solution has to be found.

Andy MacGregor, Sleeping Warrior

Cumbernauld Theatre is one of the few last community safe space for Cumbernauld families too and enjoy some time away from the realities of the cruel world we live in. It’s cultural place where young and old can scape together with their imagination by either watching a play, a band, a comedian, or by taking part in the many classes and workshops that Cumbernauld Theatre offers throughout the year.
It would be catastrophic if this theatre were to close ,or even offer less to this community because of funds been withdrawn. The impact will be felt worse by young (children and youth) also and older generations like me,that without a safe recreational environment to go in our community their mental health will be put even more at risk by having nowhere safe within the community to go for a wee while to scape from whatever reality they live with and share a smile.

Maria Luis, Grandmother

Cumbernauld Theatre has been a vital part of my creative life over decades. I first played there when it was merely a converted cottage, when it then became a venue where connection with the audience was so intense you couldn’t help go “off script” and talk to individual members and most recently in the modern and beautifully appointed theatre at Lantern House.

The 50 or so years have taken me from a simple folk singer, through being something a national institution with the Singing Kettle now a purveyor of songs for children in my one man show.

Cumbernauld Theatre has been an important part of that journey. What I can say is that on my last visit only a few months ago the professional and caring attitude of the staff has been the common factor. The culture that existed when I first came as a young performer has been retained and indeed flourished.

It’s vital that that venues like Cumbernauld Theatre exist in our small country. Venues and theatre companies who can take young ideas, nurture them and bring them to an audience.

Throughout my career I’ve met technical staff, front of house members and performers who have cut their teeth in Cumbernauld theatre. Please don’t cut off that route to a career that so many have followed.

And what about audiences in the town of Cumbernauld.  What are they to do for their cultural hit. Drive into the city? Sit in a make do venue as happened when Cumbernauld when it was a new town or stay at home watch the tele?

How crazy is it to build a beautiful and flourishing venue and then not support it financially. It’s simply no fair!

Artie Trezise, The Singing Kettle

I am writing to express my deep disappointment that Cumbernauld Theatre ‘s application to Creative Scotland’s Multi-Year Funding Programme has not been successful.
This theatre has provided quality art and culture events for over 50 years. I attended shows and clubs as a child, and my own children benefitted from attending drama groups and quality pantomimes and dramas. It has supported my whole family’s social and emotional wellbeing and the development of my children into confident young people.

This venue is the only arts and cultural space within the largest town in NLC. There is no other cinema, theatre, music venue, comedy club or community arts space within the town. If we were to lose this theatre then access to the arts would be severely damaged for the people of Cumbernauld. Some could attend venues in other towns, necessitating car travel due to limited public transport, but many could not. School children could not attend valuable learning experiences offered due to the prohibitive costs of hiring buses. I also know that older members of the community would suffer as they find travelling to another town or city too far. My own mother has attended several shows with friends because of the quality of events and ease of access of a 10 to 15 minute bus journey.
I cannot fathom why 141 bodies had funding secured or even uplifted, and 1 had funding cut altogether. I urge you to reconsider your decision.

Linda McCann, Teacher

As a dramaturg working in Scotland, I am alarmed at the decision to not embrace Cumbernauld Theatre as a portfolio organisation for multi-year funding. Cumbernauld is an important and unique working-class town with a rich cultural and industrial heritage that deserves to not be consumed by the ever-dominating presence of Glasgow. Scotland has and will continue to have a problem with dominant dramaturgies built in and centring the Glaswegian experience. Organisations that are supposed to represent the whole of Scotland (NTS and Playwrights Studio Scotland) have offices and staff primarily based in Glasgow which has created a very clear bias for narratives that reflect this. A simple look at programming across Scotland highlights the fact. Cumbernauld Theatre, as a producing theatre, helps sustain narratives that reflect their immediate community and a wider, more diverse national identity. To lose this will have a direct impact on what stories are staged in Scotland. Following my attendance at “The Events”, I found myself waiting for a bus home in the local wetherspoons. Whilst there I was approached by a member of the community cast who asked if I had been in the audience. At my confirmation, he went on to express how transformative the experience had been for him personally, on a social level, and how nice it was that someone from Perth had come down to visit his town. This anecdote is representative of a multitude of differences that Cumbernauld Theatre makes for its local community and audiences, highlighting the reach beyond Cumbernauld’s own location. I urge for a consideration on the impact of this cut and a promotion for focus on theatre industries in towns like Cumbernauld, not just the leading cities.

Matthew Short, Dramaturg/Writer

I write in support of Cumbernauld Theatre as a local resident, and regular attender at the theatre’s productions and presentations, of drama, music, dance and film. The theatre provides a rich and diverse programme in its well-equipped, comfortable, and accessible spaces. You only need to go along a few times to appreciate how well the theatre successfully engages with the local community. This includes the numerous ways that people of all ages and abilities can take active part in music, drama, dance and other artforms.

Cumbernauld Theatre offers artists from the rest of Scotland, and beyond, the chance to reach audiences in the unique context of their own community. The model of working with a range of artists in different configurations has the double benefit of allowing the artists to engage with the audience beyond city-centre venues. And, of course, the audiences enjoy experiences they might not otherwise have access to.

I have seen work by established experienced theatre artists and relished the excitement of early-career writers, performers, and directors in a situation that has its own unique dynamic, not found in the city. Many established artists cut their teeth at Cumbernauld Theatre and it continues to provide an outlet for touring productions that Creative Scotland encourages and supports.

Many of the theatre’s patrons live within walking distance of the theatre, and it is located right next to one of the town’s secondary schools. In the short life of the new facility, it has embedded itself into the life of the town. It is rare to find an arts centre in a town of this size that is driven by an experienced professional staff who curate such a rich programme. Without support from Creative Scotland, this artistic hub is unlikely to survive.  This would be a major loss to a community that in recent years has sometimes struggled to hold on to its sense of self-worth and local pride.

I urge Creative Scotland to reconsider its decision on the theatre’s funding.  Cumbernauld Theatre has a strong and valued partnership with North Lanarkshire Council. This synergy enables the theatre’s exceptional multiplier effect, which will be further invigorated when the benefits of the Scottish Government’s uplift in arts investment come on stream. But this will only happen if the theatre continues to be active with Creative Scotland’s support.

David Taylor, Cumbernauld

We were disappointed to hear of the CS funding outcome with regards to Cumbernauld Theatre, as the theatre is in a region which has been trying hard to build opportunities for touring musicians and audiences. As an agency, we have worked with the theatre in recent years in trying to provide opportunities to engage the local community in live music, and traditional music in particular. We hope that the theatre will be eligible for future funding.

Alan Bearman Music

I cannot express how shocked and disappointed I feel at the thought that our local theatre, Lantern House Cumbernauld, is in danger of closing through the loss of funding from Creative Scotland. My wife and family have been attending Cumbernauld Theatre since we came to the town over 50 years ago and have always enjoyed the experience ranging from Christmas pantomimes with our children, live musical events, drama, comedies and just recently a taste of opera performed by young rising opera singers. The new venue is not only a theatre but also has a cinema and folk club attracting many excellent and renowned performers from all over the UK and abroad. It is used as a creative facility for writers, artists and directors etc. It is also used by many different societies and groups in the surrounding areas to develop activities such as Junior Youth Theatre ( ages ranging from 5 years to 12 years) Senior Youth (S1 to S6 pupils) and People’s Theatre. Dance workshops, (including over 60’s dance club) Every time we go to theatre, whatever the event, we meet and chat with people from all over the central belt of Scotland who are always delighted with the facility and find it such benefit of not having to go into Glasgow or Edinburgh because of its location and ease of access and excellent parking facilities or nearby train and transport facilities. The loss of this theatre would be a tragic loss not only for the people of Cumbernauld and the children and youth of the schools but also for up and coming writers and artists who use this as a introductory facility for future careers. Creative Scotland must reverse this decision and continue to fund this outstanding facility.

John Collins

This new community theatre is a great resource to the community and the people is serves. I am supporter of the theatre as a friend and regular going. It is a safe place for children to attend and learn new skills and career routes.
It is not only a theatre but also a cinema providing a multi purpose venue. The cafe is used during the day and at night to provide a warn and safe place to go.

The facility is used by many elderly members of the community who could not travel to Glasgow and it is safe place for them. It would be a great loss to both the school and the community to lose support from Creative Scotland.

Andrew Geelan

We are shocked and troubled by the potential fall out of Cumbernauld Theatre not receiving Multi-Year Funding. This is a theatre that is not only a tremendous building – though it is that, and that is part of the critical infrastructure of live performance in the region – but a mentality and a group of people that is deeply invested in the flourishing of the arts, and especially of companies like Shotput, who have been emerging over the past several years. In the depths of the pandemic, when most organisations were hunkering down into survivalist thinking, Cumbernauld approached us to ask how they could support our continued development in this troubled time. Let me repeat, Cumbernauld approached us – wee little company – because they knew that in a moment like 2020, fragile new companies could very easily collapse. It was therefore at Cumbernauld, once the lockdown lifted a bit, that we were able to begin building what would become Shotput’s regular ensemble. It was a crucial moment in expanding our company. Then again, a couple years later, Cumbernauld took a chance on Shotput, who were commencing our first tour around Scotland with Ferguson and Barton. Not only did they programme the work, they offered us their incredible main space for a week of production rehearsals, allowing us to hone this technically intricate work before touring it around Scotland. We were proud to premiere our first full-length work at Cumbernauld. We could go on: how the team at Cumbernauld thinks creatively about how to connect the work on stage with the young people in the school connected, how the links between the theatre and the cinema are artfully done to harness audiences for both, and just how welcoming the entire team has been from dreaming to planning to execution to reflection. As a company that now has secured Multi-Year Funding, we cannot execute our plans without Cumbernauld Theatre. That is how fragile this ecology remains. We need Cumbernauld Theatre in order to make good art.

Jim Manganello & Lucy Ireland, co-Artistic Directors of Shotput

Creative Scotland should and must reconsider their decision. Withdrawing support of this community based facility, will have a negative impact on all that is good within Cumbernauld. Ensuring we have a cultural centre for all to enjoy, having a diverse array of talent coming our community, allows our community to grow culturally.
Therefore, it is essential that this funding is continued.

David Mcmanus

We stand with those calling on Creative Scotland to rethink its decision not to provide multiyear funding to Cumbernauld Theatre.

With no multiyear funding for Cumbernauld Theatre at Lanternhouse—or for any other arts organisation in North Lanarkshire—this decision feels short-sighted, especially at such a crucial time for the venue and the wider cultural sector in the area.
Recently, we’ve been working closely with the team at Cumbernauld Theatre to bring our national event for youth theatre leaders, ‘Interchange’, to Lanternhouse in April 2025. We’ve been hugely inspired by their innovative approach—integrating the theatre with a school to benefit multiple communities. This model offers valuable lessons as Scotland moves forward with education reform and North Lanarkshire implements its new cultural strategy. That’s why we chose to partner with them, and why we’re deeply concerned about the potential impact of this funding decision.

We hope Creative Scotland and other key stakeholders can work together to find a way forward that protects everything Cumbernauld Theatre has built in recent years.

Kenny McGlashan, CEO, Youth Theatre Arts Scotland

Paragon is deeply distressed by Creative Scotland’s decision to withhold core funding from our partners, Cumbernauld Theatre, a vital cultural resource in North Lanarkshire. This area faces significant challenges, including a high number of residents struggling with the cost of living crisis. Cumbernauld Theatre’s new venue, Lanternhouse, has been a beacon for community engagement and artistic expression.

Our partnership with Cumbernauld Theatre has been instrumental in delivering inclusive arts programmes to the community. Our collaborations with organisations such as Hope for Autism, National Autistic Society Scotland, Down Syndrome Scotland, Glencryan School, Redburn School, Cumbernauld Academy, and New College Lanarkshire have enriched the lives of so many individuals. The theatre’s commitment to accessibility and high-quality performances has made it an indispensable part of the local cultural landscape.

We urge Creative Scotland to reconsider their decision and support this tremendous company that produces high-quality performances and arts events for the large Cumbernauld local community. The loss of funding threatens not only the theatre’s operations but also the vibrancy and cohesion of this fantastic community.

Ninian Perry, Creative Director Paragon Music

Cumbernauld Theatre serves as a vital cultural hub for North Lanarkshire, fostering artistic expression and community engagement through diverse performances and creative opportunities. The potential decision to alter its funding or support threatens to diminish access to the arts for local audiences, jeopardize livelihoods for artists, and weaken the fabric of community cohesion that the theatre cultivates. Recognizing the theatre’s profound impact, Creative Scotland should reconsider the implications of this outcome, as its support is crucial not only for sustaining artistic endeavors but also for enhancing the overall cultural landscape in the region, ensuring that creativity continues to flourish and benefit all members of the community.

Corin Mackenzie

This is the only place for young and old to come together, Cumbernauld does not have a cinema & this would be devastating if it closed.

Jane Spear, Officer Civil Service

Fed up with institutions and organisations that can be the glue that holds communities together and help sustain the being threatened by, in this case, unaccountable bodies who seem to know the price of everything but the value of nothing.

At a time when access to the arts is becoming more a privilege enjoyed by the middle class Cumbernauld Theatre has over the years been a gateway for many people in the town and beyond to access experiences that enrich and entertain them.

It is an ill-judged decision and Creative Scotland must think again.

Kevin McVey

I have been fortunate to lead Cumbernauld Theatre’s community theatre company. I was keen to create work about the local community for the local community. Our first production ‘night in the nauld’ explored the area and its inhabitants. Last year I undertook a project to celebrate the rich history of the cottage theatre. The cottage theatre was unique in that it was a theatre set up by local people and managed by them till the late seventies. It was pivotal in the Scottish folk revival and was also the theatre that Billy Connolly made his stage debut as an actor. In my research I consulted with the community and explored the theatres vast archive.

The importance of the theatre cannot be underestimated. For many it marked their first contact with theatre through school visits to panto or workshops. For some it was a second home. I had plans to commemorate the history of Cumbernauld on stage as it approaches a milestone anniversary and also create a show around the history of cummbernauld theatre as a companion piece to ‘the cottage that became a theatre ‘ . These productions will not be possible in light of Creative Scotlands decision . Although core staff are impacted there are greater ripples. Freelancers like myself lose a source of income . The vital work to engage the community no longer becomes viable . My ethos was to make theatre by the people for the people. It’s the roots of community drama. This opportunity will be lost. It has created a Scotland whereby your involvement and experience of culture and the arts is determined by your postcode.

This cannot be allowed to happen. The people of North Lanarkshire deserve to be able to go a theatre and hear their stories and voices reflected on stage.

Lawrence Crawford, Writer/Director/Lead Artist in the Community Theatre Company

Cumbernauld Theatre has been a fixture for the community since it was established in the 1960s. Generations of people had their first introduction to the performing arts here.

Creative Scotland should reverse its decision and the Scottish Government must intervene to protect the future of this vital asset.

Lawrie Morgan-Klein

Cumbernauld Theatre is so important for our community it would be devastating to lose it I hope there application for funding can be awarded it’s really important as we all have a use for the theatre going to films, gigs, plays meeting with friends bringing people together in our community, everyone involved do a fantastic job we really want everyone to keep their jobs and we hope this application can be reconsidered.

Linda Rice, Founder of Tony’s Safe Place

This decision impacts the little people the everyday worker the disabled all who have been provided services and workshops and have found their creative voice over the many years the theatre has been part of the community.
The theatre has allowed access to a different world and needs to be supported.

Margaret Hannigan

It is shocking to think that this can happen to the infamous Cumbernauld Theatre – an art/community building the cornerstone of the community for many decades. So many families, young people, and not so young come here to see art, and grow as a peaceful community… it is a moment to be together and not out on the streets.
Why on earth can this be allowed to happen.

Maria Dalgarno, Writer

Having lived in Cumbernauld for decades and mourned the demise of ‘The Cottage’ I was delighted that Cumbernauld Theatre rose again like a Phoenix from the ashes at the Lanternhouse.

This wonderful venue has given us the only, theatre, cinema and widely available community artistic space available to our town. It provides a wonderful inclusive space for young and old to attend performances and indeed be part of a variety of artistic activities / workshops. There is nothing else like it in Cumbernauld and its new journey is still growing. The staff are wonderful and welcome everyone like dear friends. It always feels like a very safe space where I would have no hesitation in going along alone. My young nephews have had their first induction to the traditions of pantomime here and I have had the pleasure of cinema, opera, ballet, classical music evenings and unique original performance art.

Where else will our youngsters cut their teeth on the joy of live theatre if they cannot attend locally. It is neither practical or affordable to have to travel to Glasgow or Edinburgh.

To remove Multi Year funding is a real slap in the face to Cumbernauld Theatre and indeed the people of Cumbernauld and North Lanarkshire as it removes the ability to forward plan with the security of funding certainty. As a resident I strongly feel that this is saying that this town and its people are not important and have no long term role to play in the Scottish arts, screen and creative industries.

Come on Creative Scotland, this removal of funding must surely be against your mission statement – please do the right thing and reconsider.

J Morson

This us very sad if this community facility is threatened. I lived in Cumbernauld for 20 years before moving to Dunblane but I still travel to this theatre. The productions + events held here are a fabulous opportunity for local people + from afar to come together to enjoy theatre, bands + get together.

Frame Sandea

Lanternhouse is vital to Cumbernauld, have enjoyed many venues that are on here, what can we do to make sure it stays in the community.

Maureen Falkingham

Cumbernauld Theatre is a much needed, valuable resource to the communities of Cumbernauld and North Lanarkshire. It provides an opportunity for all members of the community to have access to the Arts, helping with local well being and mental health. It serves a community already hit with cuts to public services. This decision by Creative Scotland must be withdrawn.

Andy Locke

After one of the most torturous and byzantine arts funding processes ever carried out in Scotland, Creative Scotland have funded 83 arts orgs in Glasgow City through Multi Year Funding…amounting to £60 million in annual arts funding pledged to Glasgow-based organisations between 2025-2028.

Meanwhile, in North Lanarkshire, they’re getting absolutely nothing. Cumbernauld Theatre, a truly brilliant theatre which does so much for their local community, is left facing administration. There are no other organisations in North Lanarkshire receiving MYF. With rising overheads and trust/foundation funding drying up, it’s impossible for theatres like Cumbernauld to survive without stable, regular funding… and CS has a virtual monopoly on dishing this out, in their typically opaque and inefficient way.

The MYF process demanded a tremendous burden of work which disproportionately hindered smaller companies and groups, who couldn’t afford to complete a seemingly unending amount of formfilling, business plan writing and bureaucratic faff.

If you are on a low income, it’s so much harder to justify the time to go through funding processes like these. I have no doubt that CS have reinforced class inequalities in the arts through this process, as it’s the most well-off and established organisations who have the resources to spare.

How can CS possibly justify this way of operating, and the dire outcome we now see for Cumbernauld? We are lucky to have arts funding in Scotland but it needs to be spread around equitably, not just benefiting larger cities. CS need to review their decision and do some serious reflection on how their MYF process has failed.

David Hewitson, Freelance Producer

Cumbernauld Theatre is a very important part to a lot of people in North Lanarkshire from the young to the elderly of the area. The programme is very varied and great productions.

Carol Packer

I was disappointed to hear that Cumbernauld Theatre were declined funding from Creative Scotland.
There’s not much in the way of entertainment and culture in Cumbernauld considering the size of the town. The theatre is an important place for the community and we need to keep it alive.

Lorna Hudghton

Essential for young people to experience the Arts . It will introduce a new world of live orchestral music , theatre and Dance .
Essential Community gathering place .

Maureen Mitchell

As a member of the amateur drama club it deeply saddens and enrages me that such a wonderful venue is at risk.

Mark Davidson

I’ve been working as an Actor, Theatre Maker, Director and Teacher in the UK for the last 24 years. I moved to Glasgow 9 years ago and Cumbernauld is the Arts venue in which I feel most at home. I have developed new work in Cumbernauld and had the pleasure of recently being an Actor in The Events. From the moment I first walked through the door I was made to feel like I belonged there. The staff team’s desire to enable positive change in our sector is clear. This is never easy to do and perhaps the courage and bravery to imagine another model may have put them at a disadvantage in their application.

I think it’s important to mention that  I have spent a large part of the last 8 years trying to imagine and shape another model due to being the course leader of the BA Performance in BSL and English course at the RCS, set up to train deaf actors and the first of it’s kind in the UK. Part of my responsibility in that role was  to make sure that these artists previously undervalued or unknown in our industry were given the space that they deserved. I feel Cumbernauld Theatre Trust shares those values in areas of inclusion and fairness and how this might be progressed.

I feel there is a clear energy and desire in Cumbernauld for them to find a model that allows diversity and unknown or unsupported artists access to larger opportunities. They deserve the support and attention of Creative Scotland in furthering these intentions. The generosity and curiosity of their operations and wider team are faultless. The front of house and box office team always go the extra mile and the cafe staff and cleaners are part of conversations about the work in the day to day interactions of the building. It’s a total pleasure to be there.

When  I was in The Events a group of young people, probably around 14 years old, passed me on my way into the building and shouted out my character name in order to start  a conversation with me about the play which they’d seen the night before.  It was utterly brilliant and felt like exactly what I would want theatre to be making possible in the world. There is  no reason in my mind that a conversation about Cumbernauld being included in at least the development funding support would not happen immediately.

Claire Lamont, Actor

I was disappointed to hear that Cumbernauld Theatre were declined funding from Creative Scotland.
There’s not much in the way of entertainment and culture in Cumbernauld considering the size of the town. The theatre is an important place for the community and we need to keep it alive.

Lorna Hudghton