I HAVE been surprised at the modest response to the news of the probable changes to the management and operation of the Malvern Theatres. Despite your articles and William Boughton's announcement at a recent concert, there seems to be little interest in changes, which may take place in the next year.

The nub of the matter seems to be the disinclination of the district council to fund the theatre with about £200,000 per annum, which it seems to require to maintain its operations beyond the revenue it receives from seat sales etc.

Presumably, any theatre organisation taking over the management would be faced with a similar position if it is to provide a programme of theatrical and concert entertainment to the same high standard as hitherto.

We should consider what might be the outcome of a change in management faced with this problem. The largest ongoing expense outside the cost of the shows is probably salaries and we could anticipate that staffing levels may be cut to the minimum.

Next seat prices may increase and the cost of space for hire will go up. Maintenance and all the hidden expenses, which go towards making a visit to the theatre so attractive may also suffer.

We can also expect to see the quality of productions diminish with every effort being made to fill seats at the lowest possible cost of the productions. The splendid variety of work which the present management offer to the public of Malvern would go. At present the theatre's 'independence' gives it the ability to obtain the best theatrical work available.

The council must face up to its responsibility to the citizens of Malvern. A few years ago, thanks to a substantial Lottery grant together with funds matched locally, a marvellous rebuilding of the theatre was undertaken. A number of local people contributed money for additional amenities. The council must ask itself if it can honestly consider granting a lease to any outsider organisation bearing all this in mind.

The theatre complex is an invaluable asset to the town matched only by the Hills themselves and to consider disposing of its control seems utterly irresponsible.

I trust the Gazette will ventilate all the pros and cons of the discussions taking place between the council, the Theatre Trust and the management and that the people of Malvern who care about what is going on will make their views known.

G W L WALLER, The Purlieu, Malvern.