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Theatr Clwyd

Published: 09/10/2015

Theatr Clwyd aims to be a premier cultural destination and a “beacon of innovation across the creative arts in Wales, the UK and beyond”. In an update report on the theatre’s business plan, new Artistic Director, Tamara Harvey, says she’s committed to broadening the artistic programme, drawing in new audiences and extending the theatre’s local links to ensure it is a vital and vibrant arts hub at the heart of the community. In the report to be heard by Flintshire County Council’s Cabinet on 13 October, Tamara Harvey says the theatre is on target to deliver savings of £234,000 for 2015/16 as a result of its reduced funding, and exciting plans are in place to diversify its offering to bring the arts to a greater number of people and to generate more income. Proposals include offering a broader range of work as part of the in-house programme to include new writing, musical theatre, regional premieres, Welsh language works and co-productions as well as revivals of classic works. As part of the theatre’s aim to develop community links with a wider range of people, an ‘Open Doors’ event is being held on 31 October which includes free events and the opportunity for the public to explore all areas of the theatre including wardrobe, props, rehearsal rooms and backstage. There are also plans to create an ice rink next to the theatre over the Christmas period to attract more visitors. The business strategy includes a greater focus on work for and with young people and plans for a variety of new daytime activities to appeal to the wider community. The theatre will look to create new collaborations and partnerships locally and nationally across all areas of its work. Collaborations being explored include work with theatres in Wales and across the UK. There is also a renewed commitment to new writing, with a desire to place Theatr Clwyd at the heart of new writing in the country. In the report, Tamara Harvey said: “We are striving to become a vital and vibrant arts centre at the heart of our community and a creative home for artists from Wales and beyond where new work can be created and new ways of working can be explored.” Council Leader Aaron Shotton said: “The council is pleased to see the progress being made with the business plan and the efficiencies being achieved in what is a very difficult financial climate. “We’re delighted to have the new artistic director on board and look forward to her work to improve the commerciality of the theatre and increase access for the local community.”