The Plough and the Pandemic: Update to Plough Supporters, Volunteers & Donors (from John Eeles, Chair of The Plough Trustees)
At a time when the Arts is facing the biggest ever challenge to its continued existence, we are also having to face a number of very difficult decisions at The Plough Arts Centre. Accordingly, we thought that it is important that we keep our supporters updated on The Plough’s situation.
It looks like we will not be able to organise a full events programme under ‘social distancing’ constraints for several months. A restricted number of ‘online’ events are being arranged, and are advertised on this website (www.theploughartscentre.org.uk) alongside a number of COVID-19 projects, that will be presented in the coming months. Please support these if you can.
The Plough’s trustees are presently looking at a range of options to ensure the Plough’s continued survival. We remain totally committed to ensuring a viable and successful arts venue in Great Torrington. (On the 11th April, 2025, The Plough Arts Centre will celebrate its 50th anniversary and we are determined that we will all be able to attend this party!).
Every penny will count post-COVID-19 and the trustees are currently seeking external advice on our future financial operations to help find a sustainable way ahead. The resulting recommendations will be available in July. We have no choice but to ensure that we waste nothing and use our very limited resources to our utmost advantage.
Despite the huge uncertainties we are all experiencing, one single reality does not change. The Plough has survived for nearly fifty years on the generosity, the commitment and the support of those of us who live in rural Devon and love the arts, excellent music, films, theatre, comedy, workshops and exhibitions. This enduring and critical role for supporters as both volunteers and donors is appreciated now more than ever.
It is clear that our future operating model will need to embrace a greater use of volunteers to ensure our survival.
The Plough also provides valuable elements of community support and care to the young, the elderly and those with special needs in Great Torrington and local villages. Thank you for supporting these services.
NB. One simple way of showing your support for The Plough is to ensure you renew your Supporters Membership this year even if events have not yet started. Renew your Supporters Membership now!
Let me end on a positive note. Crises can also bring out the best in people. They help encourage a flow of ingenious and innovative ideas and solutions. What are your ideas and suggestions for The Plough’s future? We would love to hear from you. You will also soon receive a short questionnaire from us about how you see your future relationship with The Plough. Answering these questions will greatly help our planning.
As the future choices for The Plough become clearer, I will ensure that you are fully informed and able to influence our future directions.
Thank you for your continuing support.
Keep safe.
John Eeles
Chair of the Trustees
Chair of the Trustees