Theatre looks to long-term future

The building first opened as the Stag Theatre in 1983

Bids are being sought from firms to manage a theatre that closed briefly this year because of debts.

The tendering process is under way to manage Sevenoaks Playhouse, which would lead to a contract lasting between 10 and 25 years, the council said.

Kino Holding Ltd, which is running the venue for six months on an interim basis, reopened the Sevenoaks District Council-owned theatre in October.

The playhouse closed in July after years of financial difficulties.

The playhouse complex includes a 450-seat theatre, two cinemas and a multi-purpose studio.

Bids can be submitted until 22 January 2007, with a decision expected to be made in March.

Councillor Felicity Broomby said the authority wanted to appoint an organisation that would develop a "viable and sustainable" arts centre.