The Stage

Chit chat: Won the battle but lost the war?

Published Tuesday 9 March 2010 at 12:25 by Tabard

Interesting to note one specific feature on the forthcoming programme at the embattled Northcott Theatre in Exeter.

The venue, which has been in a bit of a pickle on and off for the last few years, finally succumbed and went into administration last month. The word on the grapevine is that Arts Council England had strongly advised against the move, but the board had concerns that it could end up being personally financially liable if the theatre racked up any more of a deficit.

So, it will be interesting to see if the board and the theatre’s funders make it along to Any Questions About the Arts?, an event being staged at the theatre later this month, hosted by Jonathan Dimbleby.

According to the blurb, it will attempt to answer the question: “Why do the arts and culture matter to our society? We know that art galleries are full to bursting, Bristol’s Banksy exhibition broke all records, and live music and drama are bringing new crowds into theatres and concert halls. Even government ministers claim the cultural industries are vital to our prosperity, although they seem reluctant to fund them. Are the arts outside London always the poor relation, and how can universities such as Exeter support the arts and culture in their region? This event, chaired by broadcaster Jonathan Dimbleby, will launch the University of Exeter’s Arts and Culture Strategy. A panel of distinguished speakers will answer audience questions about the nation’s cultural agenda, and the evening will showcase some exciting new live music and drama.”

Interesting. Although something about stable doors and bolting horses springs to mind.