Music venues and theatres have say on arts bail out fund
FOLLOWING THE Government’s £1.57billion arts fund announcement, theatres and music venues across Calderdale have spoken out about the impact of lockdown in the district and how useful the support has been.
Although the fund has evoked a positive reaction from the creative community, many groups have voiced their concerns regarding how the money will be allocated and who will be eligible for support.
Gilly Walker, President of the Hebden Bridge Little Theatre, said: “We are trying to be patient, whilst waiting to reopen, as we are all passionate about
‘We hope that the Government fund is the lifeline theatre needs’
live theatre and are conscious of a gaping hole in our lives. We are champing at the bit to get back on the stage and will shortly be looking at ways we can perform outside or individually on stage in line with government guidelines. The Government’s announcement of £1.57 billion to shore up the arts is very welcome but as yet we have no indication that any of this will find its way into the amateur sector.”
Sarah Horsley, Executive Director of The Viaduct Theatre, Dean Clough, Halifax, said: “We were sorry to see our friends at The Square Chapel go into administration at the beginning of lockdown and it’s good to hear that the government’s emergency support package has been earmarked to help all theatres rather than just the ‘Crown Jewels’.
“We welcome the funding as it means venues in Calderdale and the surrounding area may get some help. Everyone awaits further details in these unprecedented and somewhat bleak times. It’s critical theatres are given immediate guidance to help them make firm plans for the future. We hope that the Government fund is the lifeline theatre needs.”
Music venues have also welcomed the arts fund, In the lead up to the announcement, the Music Venue Trust organised an open letter to the Government
asking for more clarity, which was signed by hundreds of venues nation wide.
A spokesperson from the Lantern in Halifax said: “It’s very positive to hear Boris, Rishi and Oliver talking about the importance of grassroots music venues- maybe we’ll see them in a mosh pit once social distancing is over. We still can’t really function under social distancing and we’re still waiting on confirmation as to when live performances can start again.”
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