News Archive
New Manager for Scarborough’s Open Air Theatre
09th Nov 2009
Guests staying at Scarborough hotels may soon have a wider choice of shows to see as the towns Open Air Theatre now has a new manager in the form of Paul Gregg. The Scarborough born chairman of Apollo Resorts and Leisure has returned to management as he takes over Scarborough’s Open Air Theatre.
Apollo Resorts and Leisure have struck an agreement with Scarborough Borough Council to run the historic amphitheatre. The largest open-air theatre in Europe holds 6,500 people and is due to undergo a £3.5 million redevelopment programme. The theatre has stood unused for over two decades but it is hoped that the theatre will re-open in August 2010.
The initial deal between Apollo and Scarborough Borough Council has been agreed on a 25-year basis and Apollo will run a number of major events at the Open Air Theatre.
Mr Gregg said:
“Having had a history with Scarborough over many years, we thought that restoring it to its former glory would be an added asset for the town in its ambition to do up the most important resort on the north east coast.”
It is hoped that once it has been revamped that the venue will play host to a wide range of events including, music concerts, plays and community events.
Jim Dillon, who is Scarborough Council’s chief executive said:
“I believe this will have a significant impact on tourism and the economic well-being of the borough. It will be a unique facility and really put Scarborough on the national and international map.”
The theatre is being redeveloped as part of a £152 million scheme to transform Scarborough’s North Bay area into a major tourist attraction. Yorkshire Forward has also been approached for an additional £1 million to help fund a ‘dancing’ water feature, which would be situated outside the venue.
