Alison M. M. Coleman, Machynlleth, Wales

Dear Judie Christie and Richard Gough,

Last summer I was privileged to gain a Barter Bursary place from CPR on your Summer Shift programme. I studied Street Theatre with Ric Jerrom & Brian Popay of The Natural Theatre Company. It ‘s difficult to conceive how I could have received this inspirational tuition; let alone be part of a public street performance without your help.

Since that wonderful introduction to the work of the CPR I’ve become aware of the huge resources of the CPR archive; and been moved by an environmentally anchored piece at Ynyslas Beach; and benefited physically and creatively from resident artist, Louse Ritchie’s workshops in Physical Theatre.

Through these experiences I’ve been able to move from being a student of Performing Arts to a level of confidence where I can realise a theatre style and identity of my own.

CPR is the catalyst for hundreds of people like me; and through its contact with tutors and practitioners, thousands more.

I am, therefore, very disappointed to hear about your funding problems with Arts Council Wales.
They appear to be dismantling the Arts in Wales.

A great many of their newsletters over the years have dealt with opportunities for Arts Marketing, which does not seem to me to be why John Maynard Keynes set up The Arts Council in the first place.

I would like see the officers in charge of this latest round of cuts challenged about their understanding of the purposes of performance, since I doubt if they have attended any of the groundbreaking public showings of CPR’s work.

One bad decision by a poorly informed funding body cannot undo the important body of work the CPR has generated, and the need for a laboratory for performance ideas is international and urgent. I know between your supporters and your own expertise a way will be found for CPR to carry out its vital work.


Hwyl!


Alison M. M. Coleman, Machynlleth, Wales