Deborah Maurice - Artistic Director CIE. SAMILDANACH, France

I am utterly dismayed by the news of ACW's withdrawal of funding for CPR.

At a time of unprecedented need for wider international discussions, understandings and tolerance, the work of CPR is probably more vital than ever before. CPR's activities have the potential for opening minds and this fact has particular significance as the organisation is housed in the bosom of the university at Aberystwyth with its young and post graduate student body.

Prior to my MA studies in Theatre and the World at Aberystwyth University of Wales, my professional life as a director of a British theatre company engaged over many years on international artistic collaborations has repeatedly been refreshed, inspired and 'fed' by the various activities offered by CPR. Emerging and mature artists working with us frequently look to the programmes offered by CPR for their personal professional development. The networking among artists from all over the world that takes place on these programmes, has often provided us with our initial contacts with people who have continued to make work together across many physical, cultural and artistic boundaries across the world.

Now living and working in France as a theatre artist my colleagues and I continue to keep up with projects, summer schools and collaborations that are planned by CPR and offered outwards to the world. The important work of CPR must be allowed to continue and evolve.

The Arts Council of Wales must be persuaded that throwing away its enormous investment in CPR is a crime. To be responsible for endangering the survival of such an organisation through lack of funding is detrimental to the ACW's own reputation and to that of Wales. Wales should be proud to have such an outstanding international organisation gracing its coastline and bringing such a variety of creative and thinking people to its centre.

I hope The ACE will come to its senses before it is too late and Wales loses CPR to a more appreciative host elsewhere.



With my best wishes for your future

Deborah Maurice
Artistic Director CIE. SAMILDANACH
Drome, France