You might remember a blog we did on the challenge that playwright Fin Kennedy was set by Ed Vaizey – to prove that cuts made to Arts Council England are having a dramatic impact on the culture of new writing within the UK.
The final report, which has been endorsed by signatories far and wide, came to the damning conclusion that reductions to the arts budget are having financial and cultural implications that are more deep-felt than initially expected. As well as this, a press release was produced to summarise the key findings again with the backing of several leading figures.
Venues that champion and commission new writers provide the lifeblood of most of the writing that takes place within the UK. Behind every writer that lands a three month run at the National, or who can churn off series after award-winning series for channel four, or who is discovering their voice on the Fringe, is a support network that has been built over years in cities across the country.
Sadly, it would seem that Vaizey is taking a vow of silence on the matter. Equipped with the report, there is still no answer from the Minister. Subsequently, an open letter has been sent to remind him of the matter, to no avail.
The missive from Fin is to make this silence public until it is broken. Arts organisations and individuals are encouraged to read and disseminate the above information. Only then can a conversation be struck up, which will then lead to greater understanding for both sides.