AN OPEN day is being held at Guiseley’s historic theatre to attract new blood, new finance and a vision for the future.

The public are being invited to the event on Saturday from 11am to 3pm to hear about ambitious plans for the theatre which was founded in 1867.

Guiseley Amateur Operatic Society took over the administration of the building in the early 80s, and runs the theatre for the benefit of the whole community.

Chairman Chris Ingram said: “Time of course marches on and the time has come when we must consider the future of the theatre and how it is run.

“When GAOS took over the administration we had members with all the skills required to run and maintain the building – builders, joiners, electricians, plumbers, painters and many DIYers capable of doing whatever was necessary to keep the building in good repair.

“We have also run the building on a series of rolling but nevertheless short-term leases from Leeds City Council and that precludes applying for any major grants to develop the building and its uses.

“A further problem is the increasing age of those still responsible for the bulk of the running of the theatre – we need new blood, we need new finance and we need a vision for the future.”

There is a three phase plan, starting with a refurbishment of the theatre. Organisers then hope to renegotiate with Leeds for a lease of at least 100 years to enable an application for major funding to draw up plans and conduct a feasibility study to develop it into a theatre and community arts centre. Phase three will see buildings at the rear of the theatre redeveloped with disabled access, toilets, a cafe bar and a refurbished auditorium.

Mr Ingram said: “We not only need practical help with day-to-day running but help and support from architects, designers, fundraisers, promoters, finance people and many more who can help and advise us as we embark on phases two and three of our development plan.

“Guiseley Theatre is a unique asset for the community of Guiseley but it could be so much better and we aim to make it the best venue in the area – Guiseley Theatre and Arts Centre – we deserve it and we can do it with the help of the community of Guiseley.”