The Whitehall Theatre in Dundee has been plunged into a new crisis after the resignation of former Lord Provost John Letford, chairman of the Whitehall Theatre Trust, along with the trust’s treasurer Alex Scott.
The pair departed after a bitter row over the trust’s failure to back Mr Letford on crucial restructuring plans and future fundraising efforts, despite his “phenomenal” efforts to keep the historic theatre alive.
A Courier source said the resignations would significantly harm the theatre’s ability to move forward and could even have a fatal effect on its future viability.
Mr Letford confirmed his resignation last night. However, he declined to go into the reasons behind his shock departure.
Kenny Christie, vice-chairman of the Whitehall Theatre Trust, said: “We can confirm that it was with deep regret that the fellow Whitehall Theatre trustees accepted the resignations of chairman John Letford and treasurer Alex Scott.
“We recognise the invaluable contribution particularly John has made to the Whitehall Theatre during his period as chairman. The Whitehall Theatre Trust continues to move forward positively together with our partners in Dundee City Council and Leisure and Culture Dundee.
“The ongoing development and investment in the much-loved Whitehall Theatre continues with the support of local patrons, musical societies and community groups. We look forward to continuing in this new period of success in the weeks and months ahead, developing strong, open relationships.”
The source has told The Courier the shock resignations have cast new doubts over the future of the theatre.
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