Horsecross programming review needed?

Madam, – I recently read with intrigue at the current financial support being provided by the council to Horsecross for the Perth Theatre and Concert Hall (The Courier, October 16).

This gave me great concern as both venues are favourites to visit. However these visits are few and far between now.

The concert hall is acoustically one of the best we have been in. Both Russell Watson and Steve Howe commented on the quality of the acoustics.

However, our visits have decreased over the years due to the programming and shows being put on.

When the venue opened, we would easily be there 10 times a year, This year we will be lucky to be there three times.

The shows are increasingly having a classical focus which is fine as we enjoy these as well.

However, looking through the latest brochure there was little variation in the shows being put on.

We are therefore looking at other venues to enjoy live arts.

One venue is Inchyra Arts Club, where we will be five times this year.

My feeling is that the shows need to have wider appeal and, to be honest, move away from appearing to be a classical club to a community concert venue putting on a variety of shows.

When more popular shows are put on they sell out in astonishing time. Gary Barlow and Lewis Capaldi are examples of great programming. More comedians, light theatre, local band showcase evenings.

The policy of not having an act back within 18 months must be addressed as some potential sell-out shows are not being booked. The audience experience at the concert needs improving and the issue we notice most is the queues at the bar at the interval.

Someone needs to look at getting a faster flow.

I assume this is an excellent revenue source for Horsecross, so the quicker the audience is processed the more revenue can be collected.

Having the bar closed during the main act is excellent in stopping the continual disruption during the show. We love the venues, but...

Alex Ireland, Carse of Gowrie.