Pantomime Co-production at the Atkinson Theatre, Southport

Sefton Council wishes to invite tenders for the supply of services in respect of collaborating with an experienced producer of pantomimes to co-produce their annual Christmas pantomime at The Atkinson.

Sefton's Arts & Cultural service is based from The Atkinson arts centre in Southport. Significant investment has been made in refurbishing the stunning 19th century buildings. Today, The Atkinson is home to a public library, museum, art gallery, theatre, studio, shop and café.

The Atkinson's programme reflects its mult-disciplinary commitments to their curatorial, theatrical and community programming. Their small but dedicated teams deliver a rich and varied range of activities to a high standard, with limited resource. The Atkinson's marketing team work to promote the programmes across the whole centre, with support from Sefton Council central communications. In previous years the pantomime season has been supported by an external PR company.

The Atkinson has a track record in delivering a quality pantomime which is well loved by local people. Sefton Council is seeking a collaborator to present pantomimes that are authentic to Sefton, exciting, engaging and ensure a positive experience of which local people can feel proud. The pantomime will form a key part of the creative ambitions for The Atkinson and will form part of the Council's wider strategy to improve pride of place, raise aspirations, prioritise the wellbeing of residents and contribute to inclusive growth for the borough.

The Atkinson's core audience travel within a 30-minute drive time of the venue. This encompasses North Sefton and West Lancashire, from Crosby to Skelmersdale and Preston.

The anticipated contract commencement date is 1st May 2025.

The Council proposes to enter one contract for an initial period of 24 months with the preferred supplier, with an option to extend for a further period of 12 months, making 36 months in total.