Issue - meetings

Purpose of the report

To award a pantomime contract to the successful bidder following a compliant procurement exercise.

Decision

That Cabinet:

1. Approve the award of the Guildhall Arts Centre pantomime contract to Polka Dot Pantomimes for a period of one year with the potential to extend for a maximum of three further years. 

2. To delegate any potential extension of the contract for a maximum of three further years to the Assistant Director – Leisure, Culture and Place, in consultation with the relevant Cabinet Member.

The decision was not subject to call-in due to its urgency.

Alternative options considered and rejected

The Council had the option to do nothing and continue to procure the pantomime on an annual basis. However, entering a contract with a provider secured the pantomime for a longer period, thus protecting a significant revenue stream and the Council’s reputation.

Reasons for the decision

The Guildhall Arts Centre had a track record of delivering high quality pantomime performances; special Christmas productions generated a higher income than ‘standard’ performances and tended to encourage repat bookings.

The annual pantomime at the Guildhall Arts Centre generated a significant amount of income for the Council through 10,000 ticket sales during the festive period. Some tickets were booked a year in advance.

Equity, the performing arts and entertainment trade union had asked questions before the report had been written to ensure that the provider was compliant with relevant theatre good practice. No concerns were highlighted to Cabinet.