According
to a news release from the group, the theatre is ceasing operations after 53
seasons of performances.
The
decision was made unanimously due to continuing financial difficulties .
In
the release, General Manager Gayle Bowling stated that it was a tough decision
but the theatre has struggled financially for the past several years.
“A
very wet summer, coupled with funding reductions has left us with obligations
we can’t meet at this time,” said Bowling in the release. “Our plan is to begin
liquidating assets to satisfy our creditors and conduct the process in an
orderly fashion.”
Theatre
officials laid off employees Thursday morning. Two are donating their time with
the closing process.
The
Educational Touring Company had been preparing for school performances across
the state scheduled for the fall and winter. Those performances are now being
canceled.
According
to the release, officials learned last week that anticipated funding to support
the touring company would not be coming.
“It’s
a sad day for Southern West Virginia ,” Bowling
stated. “Theatre West Virginia
The release states that
Bowling is working on a volunteer basis through the closure.
