Funding grants to increase access to the arts for young people in Yorkshire

THEATRES IN Yorkshire have been awarded a share of £630,000 to support emerging artists and the provision of performing arts training and heritage skills.

The funding, from the Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation, is focused on increasing diversity and breaking down barriers to the arts.

The aim is to ensure access to high quality arts education, nurture skills to ensure the preservation of heritage and support emerging artists at the early stages of their careers.

Among the projects in Yorkshire is the Dark Horse Theatre in Huddersfield, which has been granted £15,000 for its Silent Approach training method, to help students overcome challenges with learning and literacy skills through involvement in the arts.

And West Yorkshire Playhouse in Leeds has been awarded £30,000 for a Community Arts Leader training programme.

The scheme, aimed at young people aged 18 to 25, is hoped to empower young people not in education, or those at risk of being excluded.

Andrew Lloyd Webber said: “This latest round of grants reflects my passion for the importance of arts education, increasing diversity on and off stage and ensuring that the next generation is equipped to champion and preserve our heritage.

“Many of the projects require matched funding and I urge other philanthropists, foundations and government to recognise the benefits and step up to support the life-enhancing effects of the arts.”