Yesterday (April 26), the Huntsville Theatre Company (HTC) notified their supporters and the media that it would be seeking a new venue to host its productions at the end of this season.
That notice was answered with a message to HTC from the Huntsville Lions Club’s property manager, Robert Jacques: the lease agreement runs until 2019.
“Their intentions are good and we understand their needs may have expanded beyond the vision HTC had 2 years ago when their then Producer Jan Jacklin committed to a lease with us that expires in late 2019,” wrote Jacques. “The HTC has been extremely fortunate to have received the welcome and generosity of The Lions Club and to call Chaffey Hall their home with their marquee installed over the front door. Where else could they have found a group of volunteers who would provide them with such a perfect venue to meet their needs with all of the comfort and amenities included and yet be so close to the Huntsville town centre for $1000.00 per month for space with a property value of $2500.00 per month minimum?”
The deteriorating relationship between the Lions and HTC first came to light in October 2016. Among the issues between them were an HTC allegation that Chaffey Hall was without heat and a Lions allegation that the theatre company made changes to the hall that were beyond the scope of their agreement. (Read more here and here.)
In his recent statement, Jacques said that “with 75 years (1941 to 2016) of serving the Huntsville Community behind us we do not need to justify our position in Huntsville or further attempt to ‘Mend Fences’ with a tenant of ours. The Lions Club’s stellar reputation speaks for its self.”
He said that the Lions wish HTC well and luck in relocating to a new venue. “This Company serves Huntsville and environs well with their programs. However, while they seek a new home the HTC and their directors and their former Producer who committed to a Commercial Lease for Chaffey Hall must remain responsible for the lease until termination in November 2019 or until such time a satisfactory termination agreement is reached.”
Don’t miss out on Doppler! Sign up for our free, twice-weekly newsletter here.
Bill Wright says
Methinks $2500 a month is a “now” rate, possibly, being juxtaposed against the “then” rate at which the contract was executed. If, indeed, that is the case, then I would think it would be financially beneficial to the lessor to terminate the lease and get a new tenant so as to benefit from the additional $18,000 per annum revenue. That way both sides can move on.