BYRE PETITION LAUNCHED IN BID TO BEAT CUTS
Published: 14th Jul 2010
IN THE wake of proposed cuts of more than £300,000 in its funding, and a wave of support from across the international arts scene, the Byre Theatre in St Andrews has launched a petition urging people to support its appeal against the decision.
In its final grant round before it was wound up at the end of June, the Scottish Arts Council indicated plans to cut investment to the Byre, Scotland’s only five-star arts venue, by more than £300,000 over the next two years.
Since the announcement, staff and volunteers at the popular venue have been heartened by the expressions of shock, anger and warm support for their work. Now the petition, online at www.petitiononline.com/byre/petition.htmlpoints out the key role the Byre Theatre has played in life in St Andrews, bringing entertainment to locals and visitors alike since 1933.
It states: “The Byre is a home for:local residents to perform; professional touring shows; student shows; children’s shows; national and international performances; a key resource for many organisations and festivals throughout the year, such as our own Inside Out Festival which last year brought in £142,000 to local businesses over three days.
“Byre audience numbers have grown from 50,000 to 103,000 in the past three years and we have launched national tours as well as introducing the Byre@ programme, bringing professional theatre to rural towns and villages through Fife.
“Our Education and Outreach programme is one of the largest in Scotland with over 710 events attended by 14,804 people in 2008-09 providing opportunities for everyone from a few months old to the over 50s.
“Without this investment the Byre’s ability to continue its dynamic artistic and educational programme is placed in jeopardy.
“We are appealing this decision and need your help to tell (Scotland's new cultural body), Creative Scotland why you believe the Byre Theatre should not have this vital investment removed and should be supported to carry out its valuable role in the Fife community and its strategic national role.”
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