Arts Council funding success stories

The Exeter Northcott and the Bristol Old Vic are just two theatres which came out winners in the recent battle over arts funding.

Earlier this month the Arts Council of England (ACE) announced its decision to reverse proposals for cuts in funding affecting both venues. BECTU had backed the campaigns in support of both theatres.

Without those campaigns both venues would have faced closure, the loss of significant numbers of jobs and damage to the local economies.

Writing to Willy Donaghy, Arts and Entertainment supervisory official, following news of the ACE’s change of mind, Stephen Gratton, chair of the Northcott Theatre Foundation wrote:

“I wanted to thank you personally for the fantastic support you provided for the Exeter Northcott during our campaign”.

BECTU and its local branch, led by steward Maurice Marshall, have welcomed the ACE’s decision to restore full funding to the Northcott. The theatre had been open for just one day after refurbishment when it received news about the funding threat.

During the campaign, BECTU added to the pressure on the Department of Culture, Media and Sport under the National Campaign for the Arts banner, and Willy Donaghy also appealed directly to the South West Regional Arts Council (SWRAC) to reverse the decision.

“There is no doubt that the Northcott Theatre is a valued community assset that encourages participation from all ages and sectors of the population as well as being a renowned centre of excellence. The theatre’s contribution to the creative economy, and as an employer of local talent is also significant and well respected. I therefore urge the Arts Council to reverse its decision to cease funding the theatre and so allow the Northcott to continue to flourish” wrote Willy Donaghy to SWRAC Chair, Professor Andrew Brewerton.

Meanwhile Bristol Old Vic, long revered for its contribution to UK theatre, can also look forward to a new lease of life now that its funding has been restored. The venue is currently undergoing a major refurbishment. BECTU represented staff interests in discussions leading to the current closure and secured, not least, the rights of former staff to return to the venue when it reopens in 2009.