THE CITADEL Theatre has cancelled all of the shows and performances that had been planned with MD Creatives for the rest of the year.
MD Creatives, a local creative arts academy, signed a five-year lease with the Citadel back in December 2020.
To ensure the sustainability of the 160-year-old building a "three-way approach" was mapped out by MD; housing their performing arts classes, educational programmes, and commercial performances under one roof.
The pandemic presented lingering challenges for the business, yet the historic theatre re-opened its doors in April for a colourful calendar of live events.
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What has happened?
After the difficulties of the pandemic, the cost of living crisis is adding a further burden on the arts and entertainment industry.
Trying to manage these challenges, Miguel Doforo, creative director of MD Creatives, said that it has become increasingly unsustainable to run the commercial side of the business while providing their two other avenues.
Miguel also said that the stress of trying to maintain all three avenues of MD has taken a toll on his health, and has decided to take a step away for his own wellbeing.
Director's comments:
Miguel Doforo, creative director and founder of MD Creatives, said: "Unfortunately, I’ve had to make a decision to step away from the Citadel.
"I’ve tried so hard for the past two years to make it work and the cost has come heavily to my organisation and now my own wellbeing.
"I really wanted it to work but I can’t give any more, and as a company we now have to cover all the costs it is carrying, which is taking a massive dent in my other business.
"It’s been such a hard two years; we took a venue in covid and we just can’t make it work with the huge costs.
"This town needs that venue and I hope it gets an amazing new tenant and I will support it any way I can.
"But unfortunately in such hard times I can’t do it anymore and for my own wellbeing I have to step aside."
What happens now?
While MD Creatives are vacating the premises and upcoming performances have been cancelled, the Citadel is not closing down.
It is now available for a new tenant who may wish to keep St Helens' live music and performance scene alive.
Miguel confirmed that MD Creatives are working through refunding any ticket that was bought for the upcoming shows at the Citadel, as well as paying back promoters.
MD Creatives will continue to offer their Blank Canvas and Creatives Academy programmes free of charge for people interested in performing arts.
However, they will be downsizing and will now operate out of their premises on Barrow Street in the town centre, rather than in the Citadel.
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