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There has never been a better opportunity to create a Welsh language theatre for the whole of Wales, following years of waiting. This is the clear and unequivocal message that Cymdeithas Theatr Cymru has for the Arts Council of Wales. "We strongly believe that the opportunity exists at present to create the type of national organisation which the theatre in Wales needs," says Huw Roberts, Honorary President of Cymdeithas Theatr Cymru, in the Spring issue of its newsletter, 'Galwad'. "There is a need to create a Welsh language theatre for the whole of Wales, an inclusive organisation which will be open to all talent, with a prominent place for young people and their training, and one which will work closely with other organisations which promote the use of the Welsh language in all parts of the country." He added that the new organisation should work closely with the voluntary sector, as well as promoting close links with other theatre companies which thrive in Europe in the lesser used languages. In the same issue of 'Galwad', there is a statement by the Arts Council of Wales regarding its plans to establish a Theatre in the Welsh language. "The Arts Council of Wales has agreed to establish a commissioning company to develop the work already undertaken to develop a Welsh language Theatre Company. We intend using £250,000 which has been earmarked in the 2002-2003 budget to start this process," said Sandra Wynne, Senior Arts Development Officer - Drama. This money will be used to stage two productions at a cost of £100,000 each during 2003, with £50,000 to be used to fund the costs of establishing the commissioning company. She added that the Arts Council of Wales will establish a steering committee which will include a wide range of people from all over Wales who have specialist knowledge of the field. She emphasised that these plans are only the start towards establishing a Theatre in the Welsh language, and there is a need for a substantial investment from 2003-04 onwards. The Arts Council of Wales is about to start extensive discussions with theatres, local authorities and other organisations who have an interest in the development of the new company. "Cymdeithas Theatr Cymru looks forward to contributing in full to this process, and is determined to see that the type of national organisation which is needed is established this time following the frustrations of the past few years," added Huw Roberts. __________________________________________________________________________ Contact: Geraint Wyn Parry, Secretary of Cymdeithas Theatr Cymru - 07747 033756. Huw Roberts can be contacted on 01758 612108; Arts Council of Wales Head of Communications on 029 20 376500. Cymdeithas Theatr Cymru is the national association of supporters of Welsh language theatre. It was established in 1967 by Wilbert Lloyd Roberts. It is a voluntary organisation which does not receive a grant or subsidy from any source towards its core costs. It is the voice for the audience and represents their interests; with members throughout Wales. Members receive the newsletter, 'Galwad' and Ticket Vouchers. It publishes the occasional series, 'Astudiaethau Theatr Cymru'. |
| Cymdeithas Theatr Cymru web site: |
| Geraint Wyn Parry e-mail: theatr.cymru@talk21.com |
Tuesday, April 23, 2002 |
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