IF York's Millennium Person of the Past could return to this city, he would be taken aback by how much it has changed in the 76 years since his death.

But Joseph Rowntree would derive comfort from a visit to the theatre that bears his name. It continues to epitomise the community spirit so central to his philosophy.

The fact that his company, now Nestl Rowntree, pulled out of managing the theatre is nothing more than a sign of the times. Paternalistic employers of the Joseph Rowntree mould have largely been swept away by globalisation. Like its competitors, Nestl Rowntree is now concentrating on its core activity: making confectionery.

This change alarmed many in York. Yet it may be exactly what the Joseph Rowntree Theatre needed. It now looks the worse for wear. Some of its most loyal clients have taken their productions elsewhere, complaining of its general shabbiness. Others blame its lack of facilities for dwindling audiences.

Nestl Rowntree's withdrawal from active theatre management will allow the new man in charge greater freedom to make changes. It is already clear that Mike Thompson is animated by the task ahead.

Mr Thompson is an expert on the theatre's advantages and deficiencies. As musical director of Rowntree Musical Theatre, he is embedded in York's amateur dramatic tradition that has made such good use of the theatre down the years.

The city is fortunate to have an abundance of excellent drama companies. Their success is based on commitment and enthusiasm, the two qualities most needed to ensure Joseph Rowntree Theatre enjoys a prosperous future.

Mr Thompson is talking about pursuing Lottery funding. The restoration of such an important community venue is exactly the sort of project Lottery funds should support. Many sports clubs have had their facilities transformed by Lottery cash. A carefully constructed bid could be the first step to a revived Joseph Rowntree Theatre.

Updated: 10:36 Wednesday, April 04, 2001