RSC defends plan to cut 11% of jobs to tackle 'perilous situation'

The Royal Shakespeare Company has defended plans to reduce its workforce by 11% and merge its costume departments by saying the proposal will ensure it is "match fit" as it faces a "perilous situation".

- Lanre Bakare Arts and culture correspondent

The RSC's joint artistic director Daniel Evans told the Guardian that the 11% reduction in staff numbers could save £2.8m a year, as the organisation attempts to address a shortfall thought to be between £5m and £6m.

He said at present the RSC has not been able to raise funds to match its running costs, and that it had to make the changes in order to find a "financially resilient model".