Paula & Ian Rylatt - Wales

Dear Judie Christie,

I am writing on behalf of my husband and myself in support of the CPR appeal to the ACW. We are local residents, not theatre practitioners, but the positive work of the CPR is still felt by us. As direct participants, we have only taken one workshop, with Joseph Jordania (which was excellent), but as viewers we have seen inspiring performances put on by the CPR. We had felt extremely fortunate to live in an area where the arts are so well supported. As craft workers we benefited from the Cultural Enterprise Scheme, which has unfortunately also felt the knife. Wales is alive with music, theatre and art. It is inspiring to live in that climate of appreciation. Moving here from England was like stepping into the light! We thought this nation had it right! We see and hear the positive effect on friends and neighbours too. Lives are enriched. We sing in a choir with many members who have gained so much from the Giving Voice workshops.

Then this absurdity happens. It makes no sense to cut out one of the key players. The ACW talks the talk about forging international links, supporting new ideas, starting a new national theatre...in the CPR they already have a head start. What are they thinking? What is this really about? Could the Olympics be behind it? We are still 4 years away, and already the arts across the board in Britain have suffered. Why? Because it's an easy target. How do you quantify the value of an organisation like the CPR? You can't really. You feel it. And you know it in your heart. This withdrawal of funds is wrong. What is really absurd is that the CPR funding amount is tiny, a pittance. Yet so much is created to the benefit of so many on this shoe string that I can't help but be impressed by those who run the CPR. They should be congratulated and encouraged, not slashed.

In hopes that reason prevails and for once money doesn't rule the day, we submit this letter of support.

Yours most sincerely,

Paula & Ian Rylatt, Wales