We at The Zoo are saddened to hear of the proposed 100% cut to arts funding in Newcastle. If ever there was a city that has proven the value of culture and the arts as a way of regenerating and re-inventing itself, then it is Newcastle.
Some of the best, most innovative, and most influential companies and venues are based in the North East. Without Northern Stage and writer Alan Lyddiard, we would not have been able to produce our version of 1984; it was Alan's script that we used. Live Theatre hosted the world premiere of Lee Hall's 'The Pitmen Painters' which went on to be presented in the West End and on Broadway. It is due to tour again in 2013 and we'll be there to see it when it arrives at The Alhambra in Bradford.
But it isn't just theatres and venues that will go. There are ten libraries under direct threat of closure. To curtail access to books and learning in this way is an insidious act of cultural hooliganism and social engineering. Limiting learning only to those who can afford to access it is this Government's clear policy. Lee Hall, the writer mentioned above, has written a heartfelt and impassioned letter to the leader of Newcastle City Council urging him to resist taking this catastrophic action. The letter articulates things much better than I could so please check out
http://thinkingpractice.co.uk/cuts-and-choices for the chance to read it.
So to all our fellow creative people in Newcastle and the North East; we send you our support and best wishes. Stay strong and keep on keeping on!
PZ
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