Gate Theatre applauds €300k gift

SCROOGE must have turned in his grave when cast members of A Christmas Carol gathered at the Gate to applaud the generosity of its latest benefactor.

Loretta Brennan Glucksman, director of philanthropic organisation, the Ireland Funds, was on hand to donate a €300,000 cheque to theatre director Michael Colgan, towards the Dublin venue’s redevelopment.

Because the 18th century building, at the foot of O’Connell St, is not a custom-built theatre, a €3.22 million building development programme has been instigated.

Gate deputy director Marie Rooney said its design was “Dickensian” and that it created great practical difficulties, requiring sets to be reassembled on stage and providing no rehearsal space.

Under the creative development plan, already funded to the tune of €2.2 million under the Department of Arts cultural infrastructure Access Fund, a new rehearsal space will be created, as well as workshop space and improved backstage facilities.

The design will also cater for an outreach and education programme, giving increased access to the theatre from within the profession and the surrounding communities. The programme will include workshops, master classes and mentoring programmes to assist emerging artists.

Gate director Michael Colgan said the latest donation would give them the courage and confidence to proceed with their ambitious programme.

“The Ireland Funds should take a bow. When the building is complete, it will help nurture and realise an extraordinary wave of new writing talent.” Ms Brennan Glucksman said they were delighted to support the Gate on the eve of its 75th anniversary, in 2003.

Cork’s leading playhouse, the Opera House, is also celebrating a long overdue windfall. Almost €2 million promised in Budget 2001 has finally been handed over, allowing the Opera House to pay off debts incurred in its recent refurbishment programme.