Cuffe And Taylor will continue to programme Scarborough Open Air Theatre until at least 2028 after the promoter's parent company Live Nation agreed a new 10-year deal with the local council.
More than 75,000 people attended concerts at the theatre in 2017 - a rise of 50% on 2016 - to see artists including Little Mix, Olly Murs, Cliff Richard, The Beach Boys and Jess Glynne.
After 14 shows this year, it is now hoped there will be up to 20 live music events at the Yorkshire Coast venue between May and September in 2018.
“We are delighted with the new and exclusive 10-year deal between Live Nation and Scarborough Borough Council to stage events at the theatre," said Cuffe And Taylor director Peter Taylor.
“Our partnership with the council has worked very well in the last two years and this new deal allows us to continue working together to secure a bright and exciting future for this marvellous venue.
“We have enjoyed two record breaking years since we took over programming live music events here in 2016, with attendances rising year-on-year. In 2017 sales again have broken all box office records.
“This new long-term deal enables all parties to plan even better for the future. The theatre is now on the map, with not only British artists but major international stars too, and we are determined to continue to bring the biggest and best acts to the beautiful Yorkshire coast.
“We are now working not only on next year’s line-up but on 2019 and beyond. We cannot wait to reveal another wonderful series of shows for next summer which we feel sure will break records again.”
Cuffe And Taylor, which has operated the venue since 2016, is now in discussions with the council about raising the capacity by installing a permanent standing area in front of the stage. Under the agreement, Cuffe And Taylor, which was acquired by Live Nation earlier this year, will continue to exclusively programme all live music events at the theatre while the council retains ownership and management of the venue.
The council will now work with Cuffe And Taylor to provide a permanent solution to cover the lake in front of the stage. The water was covered by temporary decking during the 2017 season. Covering the lake will raise the attendance capacity of the venue from 5,454 to 7,456 (seated) or 7,900 (standing).
PHOTO: Cuffe & Taylor
