Businesses in and around Bungay are being invited to help support the town's main arts venue, which brings in more than £1m into the local economy annually.

According to an Arts Council formula, the Fisher Theatre brings over £1.1m of business to the town every year.

The calculation was made before the March 2020 lockdown and it is said the figure is now almost certainly higher.

On April 5, local companies are being invited to an open evening at the theatre where they will be able to investigate opportunities to sponsor activities and shows at the theatre, one of the oldest provincial theatres in the UK.

The Fisher Theatre’s programme is very varied and includes an annual pantomime, film club, shows streamed live from the National Theatre, a folk club, youth theatre companies and performances by tribute bands.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: Acting chairman of the trustees at the Bungay Fisher Theatre, John PutmanActing chairman of the trustees at the Bungay Fisher Theatre, John Putman (Image: Newsquest)

John Putman, acting chairman of trustees, said: "Although tickets sales and bar receipts do not cover the cost of running the theatre, our open evening is not merely a cash-raising exercise, it is a real attempt to engage further and deeper with the local community.

"The theatre enjoys considerable local support and we want to increase two-way traffic flow."

The theatre also has rooms to let for private functions, corporate away days, private parties or weddings.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: Daisy the Cow (left) and Jack (right) have an emotional journey together at last Decembers pantomimeDaisy the Cow (left) and Jack (right) have an emotional journey together at last Decembers pantomime (Image: James Ducker)

Some local companies may prefer to be involved more behind the scenes and help on the technical side with lighting, sound, video, costumes, scenery, and disabled access or sponsor the Art Gallery Upstairs which runs exhibitions throughout the year.

READ MORE: Bungay Fisher Theatre panto review

Partnerships are another possibility that the theatre is considering.

Although not part of its drive for sponsorship, the venue is also open to working with the local chapters of national charities to provide training, education and specialist services tailored for different community sections.

The Fisher Theatre was first opened in February 1828 with a performance of The Belle’s Stratagem.

Beccles & Bungay Journal: An exterior shot of the Bungay Fisher TheatreAn exterior shot of the Bungay Fisher Theatre (Image: Newsquest)