Cut Back on Classics, Says Arts Council
Date: 24 February 2000
Theatres that aren't more creative and experimental in their use of new technology risk losing their grants, says a controversial funding review carried out by the Arts Council.
The review, which has Government backing, expresses concern about the decline in the popularity of conventional, text-based drama. It suggests that shows making imaginative use of lasers, video, audio and acrobatics now have wider appeal, especially among a younger audience who have grown up with TV, video and the internet.
It is also hoping to encourage theatres such as the Bristol Old Vic, the Royal Exchange, Manchester, and the Nottingham Playhouse - all known for their emphasis on text-based drama - to introduce 'an active culture of participation'.
The majority of regional theatres have failed to exploit new technology for the benefit of their audiences, says the report.
Leading members of the acting profession are naturally alarmed at this apparent dumbing-down strategy by the body on which so many theatres depend for their existence.
Regional theatre has provided the launch-pad for countless actors and directors of distinction, including John Thaw, Ian McKellen, Simon Callow, Michael Gambon and Patricia Routledge.
Timothy West said the survival of repertory theatres was essential to the fostering of young actors, directors and designers. 'If you have worked among good people, you learn good skills,' he said.
'Funding should focus on producing top quality plays rather than diminishing them as an art form,' said Tom Conti, who recently finished a sell-out regional tour of Neil Simon's play, Last of the Red Hot Lovers .
For many, theatregoing is still regarded as a middle class indulgence. This latest move by the Arts Council may be the start of a more general trend towards giving the theatre a class transplant.
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