Theatre 'blown away' by public's support

Kierann Shah said people needed "laughter and connection now more than ever"

The artistic director of a struggling theatre says she has been "blown away" by the public's support.

Bristol Improv Theatre has raised nearly £18,000 after announcing it was under threat of closure in July.

Kierann Shah added the theatre was now on track to staying open after receiving donations, words of support and offers of help from people across the UK, as well as overseas.

"In a time when the news is bleak and disturbing, we are proud to be bringing laughter and connection into peoples lives," she added.

Bristol Improv Theatre said it would make sure any extra funds raised over its £20,000 target would go towards making the theatre "more accessible".

Ms Shah said: "Whilst we still have to make changes to become more financially sustainable and resilient, it has been an incredible relief to know that people do value what we do, and that there are people willing to support and fight for the arts at a community level."

Bristol Improv Theatre has nearly reached its £20,000 fundraiser target

The theatre director said the venue had been impacted by the cost of living crisis and grants did not cover the cost of running the theatre.

She said the team had been "lucky" to receive funding from the council twice in the past two years.

Ms Shah said: "There has been a great impact from the cost of living on artists and theatre-goers.

"Artists have had to go back to more consistent work and people in the 25 to 35 age bracket, who may have once had more disposable income, now don't have a lot of money in their pocket."

"However, after this fundraiser, we are now confident that some version of what we do will carry on," she added.

A spokesperson from Bristol City Council said: "We share the challenges cultural organisations face with budget pressures.

"Whilst the council is not under a statutory duty to fund culture, we are proud to have retained a cultural grants programme and choose to invest in culture and arts across the city."