Rialto Theatre has called on the government and relevant authorities to approve a proposal by the Municipality of Limassol aimed at resolving a long-running ownership issue while preserving the organisation's autonomy.
In a statement, the theatre urged officials to proceed without further delay with the municipality's proposal, arguing that it would protect Rialto's administrative and artistic independence, allow it to continue setting its own cultural programme and safeguard jobs within the organisation.
The appeal follows reports that the proposal was placed before the Council of Ministers for a second time but was once again not discussed.
Municipality's proposal
According to details previously disclosed by Limassol Mayor Yiannis Armeftis, the proposal would effectively involve leasing the theatre premises to the municipality.
Under the plan, the Municipality of Limassol would cover 50% of Rialto's operating costs during a three-year transitional period.
Armeftis has said the objective is to give the theatre sufficient time to become financially sustainable.
He also stressed that the municipality supports maintaining Rialto's autonomy, describing the current governance model as successful.
Issue unresolved since 2019
Rialto noted that the theatre reopened in 1999 following a major investment by the former Limassol Co-operative Savings Bank.
The state subsequently supported its operations through annual grants, initially via the Cultural Services and later through the Deputy Ministry of Culture.
After the collapse of the co-operative sector in 2018, ownership passed to the Ministry of Finance, which continued to provide annual funding.
According to the theatre, that grant now accounts for less than 20% of its total budget and covers part of its operating costs as well as maintenance and infrastructure upgrades.
Rialto said its management has been seeking a permanent solution since 2019 through meetings and correspondence with the relevant authorities.
The organisation argues that prolonged uncertainty complicates its operations, places additional pressure on management and staff, and restricts long-term planning.
It also pointed to delays in the payment of the annual state grant, which in recent years has often been received towards the end of the year, further complicating financial planning.
Independence ‘essential’
The theatre said preserving its independence is a fundamental requirement for continuing its mission of supporting cultural production, artists, audience development and access to culture.
Rialto highlighted its role in organising major cultural events since 1999, including:
- the International Contemporary Dance Festival
- the Cyprus Choreography Platform
- Cyprus Film Days
- the International Short Film Festival of Cyprus
- jazz, world music and choreography showcases
“The decision regarding its future must protect this legacy and ensure the conditions necessary for the continuation and expansion of its contribution,” the theatre said.
