Youth theatre in talks over future

Scottish Youth Theatre chiefs say they have had “constructive” talks with the Scottish Government over a potential deal to avert the company’s closure.

Artistic director Jacky Hardacre says a further meeting will be held later this week with culture secretary Fiona Hyslop following an initial round of discussions.

The company announced last week that it would wind up in the summer after having long-term funding plans rejected by national arts quango Creative Scotland.

The news sparked an outcry from leading actors and an intervention from First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who told MSPS “all options” would be explored to try to keep the company running.

Ms Hardacre said: “We had a constructive meeting with representatives of the Scottish Government today and discussions are continuing.”