Commenting on the publication of the Independent Review of Arts Council England, Society of London Theatre (SOLT) & UK Theatre Co-CEO Claire Walker said:
“We welcome Baroness Hodge’s review and the potential to create a simplified, cohesive, and more strategic approach to public investment in culture.
“We are delighted that the Review has recognised the importance of Arts Council England’s position as an independent arm’s length body which allows art to be created in a space protected from politicisation. We also strongly support the Review’s vision for the arts to be accessible to all, and particularly for Arts Council England, DCMS, and DfE to work together to develop an integrated offer for creative education.
“Baroness Hodge has rightly highlighted the value of the arts to the UK economy alongside the real terms cuts to culture by Arts Council England and Local Authorities in the past decade. We are pleased with the Review’s ambition to increase financial and funding pathways into the theatre ecosystem, but meaningful sector engagement is required to fully assess the implications of some of the proposed measures.
“Equally, a national approach to investment must properly weigh all elements of the ecosystem. This must include touring, co-production, specific art forms, and infrastructure that enables work to reach audiences in every part of the country.
“We recognise that change creates uncertainty, and it is vital that any reform is phased, evidence-led, and developed in close partnership with the sector. A clear and public timeline is needed to mitigate instability.
“We are analysing the detail of the Review and will work closely with our members to ensure that Government is informed on which recommendations will best support our sector, without leading to any unintended consequences.”
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