The recent announcement of Arts Council England funding for arts and cultural organisations for the period 2023-2026 has attracted a great deal of discussion — about those who have gained and those who lost out on essential financial support.
Brass Bands England and the National Youth Brass Band of Great Britain either enhanced or maintained their funding streams, but for others there were cuts — and in the case of English National Opera (ENO) — the ending of its funding in under 16 weeks time.
It will now be offered a grant of £17million over the next three years to develop 'a new business model' instead of its annual £12.8million award.
Reverse decision
ENO is now looking to persuade Arts Council England to reverse a decision that will force the company out of its London Coliseum base, with Director of Music Martyn Brabbins telling 4BR: "I was delighted to hear that both Brass Bands England and the National Youth Band were successful in their funding applications — and quite rightly so.
Having conducted this National Youth Band Course and speaking to people about BBE's work, I know great things are happening at both organisations.
English National Opera has also been a jewel in the crown of the UK's performing arts ecology for several decades, but as a result of the ACE cut in our funding, is now threatened with extinction."
According to the petition 1 in 7 attendees to ENO are under 35, whilst 50% of the audience are first time opera goers. 11% of the audience are ethnically diverse, and in 2021/22 over half of the ENO's audience came from outside London.
ENO was the first company in the UK to introduce fellowships for ethnically diverse orchestral musicians, choristers and directors and is currently recruiting for a Chorus Fellowship for Disabled People.
Track record
He added: "Our track record in producing world class operatic experiences at the London Coliseum is exemplary and has also been enhanced by a long standing and recognised commitment diversity and inclusion.
That sees us train the next generation of young singers — some of whom like Alexandra Oomans brass band audiences have enjoyed first hand singing with the National Youth Band at the recent Royal Albert Hall National Finals.
In addition, our 'Evolve' scheme gives student players the opportunity to sit alongside our orchestra members in rehearsal and Under 21's come free to any performance.
The passion and dedication the company has to spreading the magic of opera as widely as possible is unique, irreplaceable and should be treasured, not plundered!Martyn Brabbins
At risk
Martyn said: "All sectors of the arts meet at the opera. We provide careers for musicians and artists, skilled technicians and a family of staff.
We pride ourselves on bring the friendliest, most welcoming venue for opera. The passion and dedication the company has to spreading the magic of opera as widely as possible is unique, irreplaceable and should be treasured, not plundered!
We now need help and everyone at ENO would be grateful if people could sign the petition to help overturn this short-sighted ill informed decision."
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