A PLEA has gone out for people to keep supporting The Brunton as it battles to ensure its long-term survival.

The Musselburgh venue has not welcomed people to enjoy theatre, live music and other entertainment since reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete (RAAC) was discovered there in the summer of last year.

Prior to that, Covid-19 restrictions had also hurt the entertainment and hospitality industries.

Currently, theatre and cinema-goers are being directed to Northesk Parish Church and Loretto Theatre in Musselburgh, as well as Haddington’s Corn Exchange.

Now, the Brunton Theatre Trust is calling for support from funders and the public to help it through a challenging financial landscape.

Michael Stitt, chair of the group, praised the efforts of his “incredibly resilient team” and highlighted the vast selection of upcoming attractions throughout the autumn season.

He said: “However, as we operate on a reduced income while our main venue remains closed and East Lothian Council decided to reduce our funding by almost 50 per cent this year, we have unexpectedly had to use a large amount of our carefully managed reserves to keep going.

READ MORE: Brunton Theatre Trust months away from running out of money

“We are now in a very difficult financial situation and urgently need support from East Lothian Council, Creative Scotland, the Scottish Government, and the public to ensure we can continue to deliver the same level of high-quality arts, culture and entertainment events and education projects throughout 2025 and beyond.

“The public can support us by donating, joining our Friends scheme, booking tickets to enjoy our fantastic programme of events and telling local councillors and others how important our trust is to them.

“We are asking East Lothian Council to restore the level of funding we need to continue as a matter of urgency.

“As the county’s main cultural provider, it is vital we build on the success of the past 30 years.

“Less funding and RAAC have been cruel blows to this cherished East Lothian institution.

“We must have the same support that we have had from the council over the years to ensure the next 30 years are just as successful.” 

A spokesperson for East Lothian Council acknowledged that it was “a difficult period”.

Work is being done to look at options for the Brunton Hall, with a paper expected to be put before councillors in the near future.

READ MORE: No timeframe on when Brunton Hall decision will be made

They said: “We remain committed to working constructively with and supporting the Brunton Theatre Trust.

“When elected members met in February to consider the council’s 2024/25 budget, difficult decisions were required to plug a £17.3 million funding gap largely due to external pressures, with a £2.157 million increase in core funding from central government being insufficient to cover rising costs.

READ MORE: The Brunton to remain closed for ‘considerable' time

“In that context, a reduction in funding for the Brunton Theatre Trust was agreed, alongside other cost savings across the council.

“Nevertheless, the council has continued to provide £254,982 for the trust in 2024/25.

“Due to the presence of RAAC, significant parts of the Brunton Hall remain mothballed.

“This is a complex technical situation and work has been taking place on an options appraisal.

“We are aiming to bring a report before council in the near future.”