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We, the undersigned, call on the Scottish Government, Creative Scotland, and North Lanarkshire Council to work together with Cumbernauld Theatre Trust to secure its future.

Cumbernauld Theatre has served the community for over 60 years. It is the only professional theatre and cinema venue in the area and plays a vital role in local life. From youth and community theatre to world-class performances on stage and screen, it is a space where people of all ages come together to create, take part and feel inspired.

In January 2025, Cumbernauld Theatre Trust’s application to Creative Scotland for continued multi-year funding was unsuccessful. Since then, under new leadership, a sustainable plan has been developed that puts the community at its heart and ensures local people, youth and community projects can thrive alongside a diverse programme of touring theatre and music.

Despite months of constructive talks, Creative Scotland has confirmed that no further transition funding will be provided to sustain the organisation until the next opportunity to apply for regular funding. Without urgent financial support being secured by December this year, the organisation will be forced to close during 2026.

This comes as Cumbernauld approaches its 70th anniversary in 2026. Instead of celebrating with a full programme rooted in creativity, community and connection, the town risks losing its only cultural hub. More than 50 permanent and freelance jobs would be lost and generations of local people cut off from vital creative opportunities.

We believe that the people of Cumbernauld deserve better. Please add your name to show your support and help protect the future of Cumbernauld Theatre.

(Updated: 30 September 2025)

 
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In the announcement of multi-year funding by Creative Scotland on 30 January 2025, Cumbernauld Theatre Trust's application for continued multi-year-funding was rejected by Creative Scotland, depriving it of vital funding. We believe that this decision is unfair, based on a failure of process, and it will place at risk the future direction of the organisation, its employees and its vital work with the local community.
 
For over 60 years, Cumbernauld Theatre has been a home for original Scottish theatre-making, innovative live performance, and a thriving participatory arts programme. Every year, it welcomes over 40,000 audience members, artists, and participants, offering a diverse and inclusive artistic programme that inspires, challenges, and enriches lives. This funding decision places all of this at risk.
 
Without this funding, Cumbernauld Theatre Trust will no longer be able to produce new work, support artists, or deliver the community programmes that so many people rely on. Local audiences will lose access to live performance, young people will lose opportunities to take part in creative activities, and Scotland’s theatre sector will lose a producing house that plays a vital role in developing and showcasing new work. The decision to remove funding from Cumbernauld Theatre also contradicts Creative Scotland’s own strategic aims of supporting cultural access, community engagement, and the development of original Scottish work.
 
We urge Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government to recognise the long-term impact this will have on the community, and to work together with Cumbernauld Theatre Trust to find a common-sense solution, providing funding which will secure the future of the Theatre.