THURROCK'S Thameside Theatre has survived threats of closure to "break even" this year … but it's future is yet to be secured.

That's the outcome from a question from a borough councillor and entertainer who is no stranger to life on stage.

Former pop star and TV celelebrity show participant David Day - most famous for his chart-topping hits with pop group Dollar (with ten UK top 40 singles between 1978 and 1988) - raised the issue at Wedmnesday's (27 November) full council meeting.

In August, campaigners supporting the much loved community theatre were told the theatre had been given permission to carry on booking acts for another year despite the previous Tory administration's plans to close it and sell the building.

At full council, Sara Muldowney, councillor responsible for resources, said the theatre was thriving and plans were still being drawn up to secure its future.

She said: "The Thameside Theatre is projected to break even during 2024/25. Labour scrapped the Tory closure plans and re-opened event bookings meaning the popular Christmas panto is back and the theatre's future has been secured until 2026.

"Officers are currently preparing an options paper on the future of Thameside for consideration by cabinet before the end of the financial year.

"In the meantime we've committed to undertaking essential building maintenance for the financial year."

David (then van) Day with singing partner Thereza Bazar.

Conjuring a jovial, panto spirit, Cllr Day, - though not qwuite full of 'O L'amour' - Conservative councillor for Orsett, called on Cllr Muldowney to confirm a change of policy and future funding in the long term for the theatre.

He said: "Given that the policy introduced by the previous administration does not account for funding the Thameside, will the portfolio holder confirm whether there is a change of policy for the Thameside Theatre.

In response, Cllr Muldowney said: "Yes there has been a change of policy. The previous administration's default policy was to close the theatre and sell it. It was on an asset list for disposal. Preparing for long term plans.

"Labour has always recognised how important this community asset is for the people of Thurrock. We urge all residents and members to support the future of the Thameside by booking your panto tickets and supporting the other shows and events."

Thameside Theatre will stage its "magical Christmas extravaganza", Snow White from Wednesday, 4 December to Sunday, 5 January.

The show will star Thurrock's favourite Dame, Luke Coldham. Luke who will be appearing in his eighth Thameside pantomime, this time as Nurse Nelly, "alongside a full supporting cast, wonderful professional dancers and three chorus teams of amazingly talented young people from the local area".

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