Simon Harris – Theatre Director and Wales Fellow on The Clore Leadership Programme 2005/06

Dear CPR,

I am deeply saddened and very frustrated by the recent decision by The Arts Council of Wales to cut your revenue funding in July of this year. I was one of the first people to speak publicly in favour of the retention of ACW when it was under threat by the then Assembly Government in 2005, but it is still, unfortunately, a long way from being the consistent, accountable and inclusive body it should be and that we so desperately need. I am truly sorry we have a funding body that so easily disregards the commitment to innovation, internationalism and artist practice that CPR has made its heart and soul for over twenty years. One really has to scratch one’s head in dismay and wonder at the so-called “strategic priorities” that ACW privileges above such an organisation, given its demonstrable relationship to the ecology of theatre world-wide. ACW may trumpet its “rigorous processes,” but who can believe them in the light of such a grossly myopic and self-defeating decision? Wales is in greater need than ever of a theatre that is alive to the changing world we live in and that is outward-facing in its perspective. This lamentable decision should be reversed and I wish you all strength and support in achieving that goal.

Best wishes,

Simon Harris, Cardiff
Theatre Director and Wales Fellow on The Clore Leadership Programme 2005/06
http://perfectway.wordpress.com/