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Theatr Powys are delighted about the Arts Council of Wales` (ACW) overdue decision to suspend the Theatre for Young People (TYP) strategy. The decision secures the funding of all existing 8 TIE companies in Wales for 2000/1 by maintaining status quo for theatre for young people in the short term. The forced bidding process for ACW TYP Funding Agreements has previously been referred to by Theatr Powys as "an economically driven and sadly, cynical process". Much damage has been caused to the companies involved, with disrupted planning schedules and costs incurred for the defending of futures. Cllr Robert Bevan has responded to ACW` decision as follows: "As Chair of Theatr Powys` Management Committee I have been conscious of the hard work and effort the company has put into defending its future. I welcome the decision of ACW to suspend the TYP strategy and the new opportunity for Theatr Powys to become a permanent feature in the landscape of theatre for young people in Mid Wales." Sybil Crouch, in giving evidence to the National Assembly Arts & Culture Policy Review Committee on 19.1.2000, stated that "ACW has learnt hard lessons from not leaving enough time for consultation and there is a need to clarify processes better in the future". ACW also re-stated their commitment towards the need for transparency which, in the view of Theatr Powys was sadly lacking in this TYP `franchise` bidding process. Theatr Powys welcome ACW`s determination to achieve real consensus and partnership, and believe the new TYP strategy will need to respond to the needs and aspirations of the young people of Wales through adequate consultation and negotiation. ACW had proposed the removal of £189,000 from TYP in 2000/1 (based on their Corporate Plan budget). Theatr Powys sincerely hope that following the National Assembly Review of Arts & Culture in Wales sufficient funding above current levels of spending on TYP will be found to provide the highest quality and sustainable TYP provision in Wales. Our young people deserve such an outcome from the ruins of this debacle |
| Theatr Powys web site: |
| Sophie Anderson e-mail: theatr.powys@powys.gov.uk |
Wednesday, January 26, 2000 |
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