Let's make arts cuts today mean stronger theatre tomorrow
Submitted by Steve on January 9, 2013
From Lyn Gardner for The Guardian UK:
Yes, it's going to be challenging. But with a properly orchestrated campaign of lobbying it's not too late to get the government and hard-pressed local authorities to understand the value of the arts. Wheeling out industry bigwigs days or weeks before the axe is about to fall is far too late; we need to mobilise audiences to speak for and with the arts on a regular basis.
They will only do that if they feel connected to culture, and know that artists are not a breed apart who feel entitled to special pleading, but a genuine part of their communities.
Audiences are the best advocates theatre could possibly have. Bristol Old Vic was saved not just because of the vision and superb leadership of individuals such as Dick Penny and organisations such as Theatre Bristol, but because the people of that city felt real affection for their theatre and were prepared to fight for it.