Tony Blair’s recent keynote speech to arts leaders comes at a time of great uncertainty for regional theatres as we await crucial funding decisions about our future, following the government’s forthcoming Comprehensive Spending Review. As recorded in these pages, many theatres are currently facing very real threats to their existing levels of funding, not least the recent threat to Northampton Theatres’ continuing survival, which thankfully has now been resolved. However, in the midst of these turbulent times, I feel it is crucial as an industry to take a moment to acknowledge the sheer wealth of artistic work that has been generated since the 2001 Theatre Review. Arts Council England figures cite a 100% increase in investment in theatre, resulting in a more financially stable theatre sector. The broader canvas shows that the arts are proving more popular than ever with 76% of adults attending or participating in some kind of arts event.
Here in Leeds, one of the key ways that we have been able to capitalise on this sustained investment has been through our artistic partnerships with other regional theatres, national theatre companies and West End producers. This way, budgets and resources can be maximised and shows originating at West Yorkshire Playhouse can be enjoyed by much larger audiences across the country. Our relationships with Birmingham Rep, Peepolykus and Polka Theatre have resulted in three productions out on tour, and the Olivier award-winning The 39 Steps, originally staged by the Playhouse in 2005 with Fiery Angel, is currently enjoying West End success. Adequate funding has also meant we have been able to strengthen our commitment to new writing and it’s exciting that we currently have 11 writers on commission ahead of our annual Northern Exposure new writing season.
Regional theatres are ably demonstrating what can be achieved when funding levels match inflation. It is crucial that as we await the next round of funding announcements, we continue to work together and keep hold of our renewed sense of artistic confidence.
Ian Brown
Artistic director and chief executive
West Yorkshire Playhouse
Playhouse Square
Quarry Hill
Leeds
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