Scunthorpe Theatres slash booking fees to be 'more accessible to everyone'

The Baths Hall in Scunthorpe
-Credit: (Image: Donna Clifford)


Theatregoers in Scunthorpe are set to benefit from reduced booking fees at The Baths Hall and The Plowright Theatre, making live entertainment more affordable.

As of October 2, booking fees for professional acts will be cut to £2.50, while community and amateur group performances will incur a fee of £1. North Lincolnshire Council says the move is part of a broader initiative to make the theatres more accessible and community-focused, following the decision to bring them back under council management.

The change is aimed at transforming the venues into vibrant hubs for local talent, as well as providing a platform for professional performers. Councillor Rob Waltham, leader of North Lincolnshire Council, said: "Bringing Scunthorpe Theatres back under council management allows us to align our cultural venues with the community's needs.

"Reducing booking fees is just one example of how we can make theatre and the arts more accessible to everyone. We are committed to keeping culture thriving in Scunthorpe, and this is a vital step toward ensuring our theatres continue to serve the whole community.

"There is a cost to the council for ticket sales and we don't make a profit on the venues. We have kept our promise to review the fees and to get a better deal for residents and I am proud that we have delivered just that."

Scunthorpe's Plowright Theatre
Scunthorpe's Plowright Theatre -Credit:Scunthorpe Live

The council is introducing a new booking system, Spektrix, which brings a range of benefits, including reduced booking fees, online booking for classes and workshops, and the ability to create online profiles for easier transactions.

Councillor John Davison, cabinet member for safer and stronger communities, said: "Lowering booking fees, especially for community and amateur groups, is a direct response to the feedback we have received from local performers and audiences.

"This reduction not only supports the professional acts but also enables more local groups to stage productions at reduced costs, which is critical for fostering local talent and ensuring theatre remains affordable for all."

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These changes demonstrate Scunthorpe Theatres' ongoing commitment to supporting the arts and community, contributing to a thriving cultural scene for years to come.

To facilitate the system changeover, the box office and website sales are closed until Spektrix goes live on Wednesday, October 2, when the website will automatically redirect customers to the new system.

All existing tickets will remain valid. For more information, contact the box office on 01724 296296 or boxoffice@scunthorpetheatres.co.uk