Concert hall issues plea for financial aid to help it survive

The operators of one of Edinburgh’s best-known cultural venues, which has played host to acts as varied as Nick Cave, Nina Simone, David Byrne, Bill Hicks and Johnny Vegas, have issued an urgent financial plea to supporters to help it survive the coronavirus lockdown.

Queen’s Hall management have sounded alarm bells over the future of the venue, which celebrated its 40th anniversary last year, after seeing two months of shows cancelled or postponed “overnight”.

They have warned of “serious consequences” for the venue in the event of a “prolonged” closure due to the loss of income from hires of the hall and bar sales.

In an email to supporters, the venue raises the prospect of being forced to remain closed during the International Festival and Fringe, although both are currently due to go ahead.

It has also warned about the potential impact on the Scottish Chamber Orchestra (SCO), which is based at the venue, where Blur, The Pixies, Jools Holland, Adele, Tori Amos and Sigur Ros have also performed previously.

The Queen’s Hall’s appeal states: “In these unprecedented times, Covid-19 is having a profound effect on all areas of our community, both across the UK and further afield. Whilst the wellbeing of audiences, artists and staff is paramount, postponing or cancelling shows has had an immediate impact on our cash flow. This could put our future in jeopardy if it continues for a prolonged period of time, not to mention the impact it could have on the SCO and other organisations and musicians who have called us home.

“We have lost two months of show income overnight. Whilst we are robust enough to cover our £40,000 basic operating costs for a short time, through the reserves we’ve built up over the last couple of years and the ongoing help from supporters and funders, any prolonged closure with loss of income from bar sales, hall hires and booking fees could have serious consequences.

“This will particularly be the case should the International Festival and Fringe not take place. Without knowing exactly what the future will bring, we’re asking for your help now.”