Wyeside Arts Centre could face closure by the beginning of next year if significant investment is not secured, the venue has warned.

The Builth Wells venue has today announced they are in “very big trouble” following disappointing news regarding funding.

Wyeside has been recognised for contributing to the arts scene in Mid Wales with a multi-year funding award in the recently announced Arts Council portfolio. But the arts centre has only been offered annual funding of £30,000 to fund the existing artistic programme partnership with Theatr Mwldan Cardigan.

This grant represents standstill funding that has been at the same level since 2014. The venue says this sum also represents just 20 per cent of the funding that was applied for.  

A spokesperson for Wyeside said: “It does not in any way address the desperate need to support, maintain and develop our venue and the associated revenue costs for the future. We are sadly in very big trouble.

“Without significant investment we could be facing final curtains by the beginning of next year.”

Wyeside is now asking the public for their help in keeping the venue running. If you love visiting the venue, please consider becoming a ‘Friend’ of Wyeside - an ongoing donation from £5 per month.

There is also a Gilbert & Sullivan fundraising event on Friday, December 15 which you can attend.

Alternatively you can simply make a donation to help.

“Without your help Wyeside’s future is under threat,” added the spokesperson.

“The outcome of the ACW Investment Review has had a devastating impact on the arts in Mid Wales. Impelo, Theatr Hafren, and Mid-Wales Opera have all lost their funding – it’s time to fight for the arts!”

Wyeside is an independently-run charity and not-for-profit organisation.

For more information about their programme and to donate, visit their website.