Rachel Rogers - Merseyside Dance Initiative, Liverpool

16th March 2008.

To the Arts Council of Wales – Professor Dai Smith,

It has been brought to my attention that the Arts Council of Wales have decided to cut all revenue funding for the Centre for Performance Research (CPR). I am writing to protest about this decision and ask that it be seriously re-considered - ideally reversed.

More than any other arts organisation in Wales the CPR have brought International Culture to the heart of the country by prioritising bringing the highest quality training, lecture talks and performances to the Welsh artistic community and general public through their long-standing workshop, conference and festival programme.

Since 1974 The CPR have striven to bring internationally renowned theatre and performance makers to Wales. Allowing students, Welsh and international artists, and the general public to get involved in quality performance training and experimentation. The CPR have built a unique legacy in Wales and the UK for working with artists, developing participatory programmes and essentially getting people involved with international performance practice. As an organisation they have provided the time and space that has allowed many practitioners to expand and develop their practice whilst at the same time, retaining the connection with the local community.

I first became aware of the CPR in 1994 as a student at the University College Wales, Aberystwyth as a student where I attended the lecture talk and performances of the ‘Compagnia Laboratorio di Pontedera’. I immediately became involved in projects, workshops and events as a participant and volunteer. I went on to become a member of staff in 1996 on a part-time, then full-time basis. During my time at CPR I saw the expansion and development of the archive, the establishment of a regular public workshop programme, the publication of Performance Research, the continuation of the Conference programme, the launch of Black Mountain Press, the link to University College Wales, Aberystwyth, the beginning of the MA Theatre and the World and the growth of international membership of the organisation.

Having since taken a position at Merseyside Dance Initiative in 2005 I have continued to attend many dance and performance events in the UK and internationally. Whenever I meet people talk about the CPR people always comment on how this organisation has impacted on their own work and / or their involvement in the arts. Similarly, my own career has been shaped by the experiences I was given through participating in CPR projects and working as part of the team. I know that I speak for others in the UK and further a field that shared similar experiences as colleagues and participants.

What unfortunate short-sightedness to threaten the continued longevity of such a unique organisation who have, and continue to have a highly respected international reputation and bring worldwide recognition to the arts in Wales.

I hope that this letter and the many others will encourage you to re-consider this decision.

With best wishes,


Rachel Rogers
Project Development Manager
Merseyside Dance Initiative - Liverpool
http://www.merseysidedance.co.uk/