Ventnor Exchange will receive £225,000 from Arts Council England, thanks to its Government-funded Capital Investment Programme, as announced today.
The funds will enable the organisation to commission the construction of a bespoke Big Top tent that will provide the Island with a new multi purpose, fully equipped mid-scale venue. Able to travel between different towns and villages, festivals and fetes, to host world class performances.
The Capital Investment Programme supports the Arts Council’s mission to ensure communities across the country have the infrastructure where creativity for everyone can thrive.
Whitewood: This will be a new town hall for the whole of the Isle of Wight
Jack Whitewood, Creative and Development Director, Ventnor Exchange explained,
“We want to re-imagine what a theatre or arts centre can be. This will be a new town hall for the whole of the Isle of Wight, ensuring every community can have access to an amazing facility.
“Working with local residents from the outset, together we’ll decide what this new venue is called, how it’s used and where it visits. Local ownership of this key piece of infrastructure will also help secure the long term future of Ventnor Fringe”
Stisted: New training, placements and work opportunities
Megan Stisted, Creative Projects Manager at Ventnor Exchange, added,
“We’re incredibly excited about the opportunities this will create for our Brave Island programme which supports young people on the Isle of Wight with new training, placements and work opportunities.
“From circus skills to gig nights, new on-stage and backstage roles will be created and we will have a phenomenal new space based right here on the Island to train young people with.”
Henley: Increasing opportunities for all
Darren Henley, Chief Executive, Arts Council England said,
“This infrastructure investment will help a whole range of different cultural organisations across England to flourish, increasing opportunities for people to enjoy creatively excellent cultural events close to where they live.
“It’s particularly important that we’re making this happen in communities where cultural investment has historically been low.”
Gibby: We’re helping the cultural sector to seize new opportunities
Phil Gibby, South West Area Director, Arts Council England, adds:
“We are thrilled to be investing over £2.7 million in ten organisations throughout the South West. Through our Capital Investment Programme, we’re helping the cultural sector upgrade its infrastructure and seize new opportunities.
“It’s not just bricks and mortar – with better buildings comes improved accessibility, new technology and a reduced environmental footprint. Whether it’s a portable big top on the Isle of Wight, a carnival centre in Bridgwater, or affordable art studios in
Gosport – we’re unlocking creative potential all over the region.“Post-pandemic this public funding matters more than ever to staff, volunteers and visitors. We can’t wait to see plans take shape.”
News shared by Jack on behalf of Ventnor Exchange. Ed
