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Press and Journal
21-05-2025
- Politics
- Press and Journal
Moray Barber: We need Annie Inglis spirit to save Aberdeen Arts Centre I spent a decade helping to run
Have a think about the great leaders the world has seen, the people who have changed the lives of others for the better. They were all optimists. Could Gandhi have sacrificed so much if he didn't believe that the colonialists would eventually change their minds and leave India? When Martin Luther King said: 'I have a dream', do you think he meant 'I'm hopeful but I can't see it happening to be honest'? Of course not. Malala, Mother Theresa, Nelson Mandela – all believed they could effect positive change. And what about Alex Ferguson on his way to Gothenburg to beat Real Madrid in the European Cup Winners Cup? Ok, that was perhaps self-belief over optimism but I'm sure many of the fans sailing on the St Clair were the latter. Self-belief and optimism are closely intertwined but when the balance tips towards the optimist that's when real change can happen. However, it's hard to be an optimist in challenging times. The Aberdeen Arts Centre is experiencing an incredibly challenging time following an unsuccessful application this year for funding from the city council. Its long-term sustainability is at risk. The team behind Aberdeen Arts Centre has mobilised the community – past, present and future – to rally around, to find their voice. It's a group of people who know and understand that the Arts Centre isn't simply a building. It's a fundamental part of their lives. I could write another essay on the importance of culture in our lives. However, for now, this is a story about local people and what they can achieve in challenging times with the required dose of resilience, self-belief and optimism. When the 'Save the Arts Centre' campaign was launched earlier this week, my social media was flooded with people sharing the news. It demonstrates how much the place is beloved by people in the north-east. Tens (hundreds?) of thousands of people must have been on the stage, watched their sons or daughters perform there, been to see friends' star shine. They'll have laughed and cried. They'll have seen lives change for the better there. Support has been pledged from inspirational creative forces including Laura Main, Brian Cox and Dame Evelyn Glennie. A video was released starring a young performer from Phoenix Theatre, a group who have steadfastly stood by the Arts Centre through thick and thin. Somewhat poignantly, the youth Theatre Group Ragamuffins are celebrating their 30th-anniversary production with The Little Mermaid at the Arts Centre this week. There are too many other similar groups to name here. See the themes? Youth, encouragement, commitment, community. The Arts Centre represents the beating heart of the city – it isn't simply a building. It is a home for creative young people. It offers users a chance to learn new skills and it brings people together. At times like these, we need this more than ever. It champions new, emerging talent – writers, musicians, performers. The team at Aberdeen Arts Centre know these artists. Its independence as a venue gives it the permission to support everyone. Despite constant reductions in funding over the years, the ethos has always been to offer affordable opportunities for the city's young people. Full disclosure, I was on the Board for 10 years and love the place and what it stands for. As a student, I was fortunate to meet and work with Annie Inglis, who fought her own dogged but inspiring campaign to rally the community and keep the Arts Centre alive in the late 90s when the city council wanted to close it. Annie and her team won the day. How? By demonstrating that the Arts Centre was the only place in the city that could support grassroots theatre. To offer inclusive creative learning programmes. By bringing the community together. Yes, there are other theatres in the city. There is only one Arts Centre that can truly provide those things. The ask is simple – the centre needs either donations, for you to spread the word of the financial support required in the hope others can contribute or to simply show up and demonstrate your support. Or to go see and show and maybe donate a pound on your way out. I've two additional asks – one for the local councillors and one for everyone else. To anyone reading this who thinks a pledge, no matter how small, won't make a difference, then be optimistic. It will make a difference to the lives of so many young people, current and in the future. Secondly, I'd like to see the elected councillors form a cross-party working group to collaborate on how they can help the Arts Centre. Cross party you say? Now? It might feel like a big ask, but it's not. Not really. It's a bit of energy, time, collaboration, positivity and leadership. Imagine the goodwill that those participating councillors might create if they did? Of course, they are busy. We all are. But, hey, I'm an optimist. The technologist Kevin Kelly has the following as his website by-line: 'Over the long term, the future is decided by optimists'. So, whilst the community does its bit to raise the funds required and rallies around our local institution, I believe that the elected officials will think about the good they can do in the world over the long term and support the volunteers who have played their part in keeping the stage lights on for the last 25 or so years. Thanks to anyone who has already supported the cause and to anyone who is considering getting involved. The Arts Centre needs your creativity. And it needs your belief in securing a brighter future. Link to donate – Moray Barber is managing partner at EY Aberdeen and a performer and writer with The Flying Pigs
The National
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The National
Brian Cox and Amy Lennox back Aberdeen Arts Centre fundraiser
Aberdeen Arts Centre has launched a three-year fundraising campaign as it aims to raise £660,000 to support its operations in a bid to keep the organisation's doors open for future generations. The Succession star is just one of many famous Scots who have backed the campaign, as Call the Midwife star Laura Main and Kinky Boots and Cabaret actor Amy Lennox have also given their support. Hollywood director Jon S Baird, magician Barry Jones, and virtuoso percussionist Evelyn Glennie have also lent their support to the Save Aberdeen Arts Centre campaign. READ MORE: Seven key points from the new UK-EU Brexit deal – all you need to know Eve Nicol, programming and creative director, has called for audience members to donate £11.25 each in a bid to reach their first goal. She said: 'Aberdeen Arts Centre is home to more than 35 local performing and community groups that make use of the venue every year. 'The centre's Creative Learning and Artist Development programmes also offer support to those engaging in the arts at all levels, from beginners of all ages to local professionals furthering their craft.' Nicol added: 'The opportunity to perform or express yourself creatively can be a lifeline for people of all ages, for so many different reasons. That's why we are so passionate about supporting grassroots performance. 'It's not just about the joy of stepping on stage; it's also about the skills you learn for life, including teamwork, resilience and self-confidence. (Image: Aberdeen Arts Centre) 'Appearing on our stage sets up so many young people for life, whether they choose to pursue the arts or another career. Without major support, we risk losing that vital resource here in Aberdeen.' The centre, which opened more than 60 years ago and has a 350-seater auditorium, has warned of a 'critical funding gap' as running costs rise. Spiralling operational costs have forced the organisation to dip into its reserves, which in turn, has meant it has become ineligible to apply for certain grants. Bosses at the Aberdeen Arts Centre have set an initial target of raising £180,000 by July 1, in a bid to increase reserves before going to Aberdeen City Council to ask for funding to be reinstated. Chair of the Aberdeen Arts Centre's board of trustees, Sharon Robertson, said that even a small donation would help protect the venue's future. She said: 'Since its inception, Aberdeen Arts Centre has been a creative lifeline for local performers, artists and audiences alike. Through donations and subsidies, we've kept our venue accessible, ensuring the arts remain a vibrant part of our city. But today, we need your support more than ever. 'The cost of running the centre has surged in recent years, creating a critical funding gap. We've recognised the need to diversify our income streams and are actively implementing a sustainable financial strategy to secure our future.' Robertson added: 'Every contribution, big or small, helps protect this space for the local creative community. Your support keeps artists on stage, ideas alive, and culture thriving. Aberdeen Arts Centre has faced hardship before. In 1998, renowned local drama teacher Annie Inglis gathered 14,500 signatures to save the centre from closure. You can click here to donate.
STV News
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- STV News
Calls to save Aberdeen Arts Centre as £660,000 needed to plug funding gap
Aberdeen Arts Centre needs to raise more than half a million pounds to keep its doors open, after a surge in running costs caused a funding gap. For more than six decades, the beloved venue has been popular with dancers, actors, musicians and artists who have tread the boards at the theatre on King Street. Home to over 35 local groups, Aberdeen Arts Centre is seeped in the rich history and culture the city has to offer. But now it's future looks uncertain. Eve Nicol from Aberdeen Arts Centre told STV News: 'We'll probably have to look at pulling back some of our really crucial services that people are relying on to bring that joy and breath of fresh air to their week, whether that's coming to see stuff on the stage or taking part in our weekly drama and art classes. 'If we're having to reduce the stuff that we're able to do, that's just a little light going out in people's lives and what we're really here to do is to shine a spotlight on Aberdeen's creative community.' STV News Eve Nicol from Aberdeen Arts Centre Around £660,000 will need to be raised over the next three years – with an initial target of £180,000 by July. The appeal has already been backed by many famous faces, such as Call the Midwife actress Laura Main. Campaigners say the venue is vital for the next generation of performers. Clare Haggart from Phoenix Theatre said: 'It's a very, very special place. The size of the venue is important, because it means so many local companies, dance schools, performing groups, musicians, anything like that can perform here. It's affordable but it's a lovely venue, you can sit anywhere in the auditorium and you'll have a great view of what's happening on stage.' STV News Numerous theatre groups perform at Aberdeen Arts Centre At the heart of Aberdeen Arts Centre is the people, giving local performers and artists opportunities to learn their craft and shine on stage. But those behind the organisation say rising costs have caused a funding gap and without urgent support, they may be forced to close their doors. Campaigners have only a few weeks to raise thousands of pounds – but they're determined to keep the curtain up and the spotlight shining. Get all the latest news from around the country Follow STV News Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
Scotsman
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scotsman
Succession star Brian Cox backs £660,000 fundraising drive to save Scottish arts centre
The centre has faced spiralling running costs, with a fundraising drive backed by the likes of Succession star Brian Cox Sign up to our Arts and Culture newsletter, get the latest news and reviews from our specialist arts writers Sign up Thank you for signing up! Did you know with a Digital Subscription to The Scotsman, you can get unlimited access to the website including our premium content, as well as benefiting from fewer ads, loyalty rewards and much more. Learn More Sorry, there seem to be some issues. Please try again later. Submitting... Succession star Brian Cox is among a group of performers who have backed a £660,000 fundraising drive to save a prominent Scottish arts centre. Aberdeen Arts Centre has launched a three-year fundraising drive to pay for a year of its operations as it implements a "new strategy" to keep the facility "open for future generations". Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Call the Midwife star Laura Main and virtuoso percussionist Dame Evelyn Glennie are also among the famous faces who have lent their support to the campaign. Other celebrity backers include Hollywood director Jon S Baird, magician Barry Jones and musical theatre actress Amy Lennox. Brian Cox is among a group of actors and performers who have lent their support to the theatre. | Getty Images The centre, which opened more than 60 years ago and has a 350-seater auditorium, has warned of a 'critical funding gap' as running costs rise. The spiralling costs have forced it to dip into its reserves, which has in turn meant it has become ineligible to apply for certain grants. The organisation has set an initial target of raising £180,000 by July 1, in a bid to increase reserves before setting the centre's case before Aberdeen City Council, when it will ask for funding to be reinstated. Eve Nicol, programming and creative director, called for audience members to donate £11.25 each. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad Aberdeen Arts Centre needs urgent funding. | Aberdeen Arts Centre She said: 'Everywhere I go in Aberdeen, I meet so many people whose lives have been touched by Aberdeen Arts Centre – by the shows on our stage, by the opportunities to learn and perform, by the life skills they have gained. 'That so many people across the city have been influenced by their experiences here shows just how vital a resource Aberdeen Arts Centre is for Aberdeen and the wider north east region. The outpouring of love and support we have had already has been deeply moving, but now we must take action to secure the centre's future.' Ms Nicol added: 'The opportunity to perform or express yourself creatively can be a lifeline for people of all ages, for so many different reasons. That's why we are so passionate about supporting grassroots performance. It's not just about the joy of stepping on stage; it's also about the skills you learn for life, including teamwork, resilience and self-confidence. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Appearing on our stage sets up so many young people for life, whether they choose to pursue the arts or another career. Without major support, we risk losing that vital resource here in Aberdeen. 'Without Aberdeen Arts Centre, the north east of Scotland would see its creative life greatly diminish.' Sharon Robertson, chair of Aberdeen Arts Centre's board of trustees, said the centre was a 'creative lifeline' for local performers. She said: 'The cost of running the centre has surged in recent years, creating a critical funding gap. We've recognised the need to diversify our income streams and are actively implementing a sustainable financial strategy to secure our future. However, as we work to establish this plan, we've had to temporarily rely on our reserves – something common in the arts sector, but which unfortunately affects our eligibility for certain funding. Advertisement Hide Ad Advertisement Hide Ad 'Here's where we need the community help - to safeguard Aberdeen Arts Centre and keep it thriving for generations to come, we urgently need to raise £180,000 by July 1. Restoring our reserves before this crucial deadline ensures we can present a strong case for reinstating our funding when councillors debate the issue. 'There is then a choice for the elected members to make - allocate funds to the Arts Centre from contingencies. This is within their gift to do.'
Yahoo
19-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Call the Midwife star backs fight to save theatre
A star of the BBC hit drama Call the Midwife has made an impassioned appeal for funding to protect the future of a Scottish theatre which inspired her to become an actress. Laura Main is backing a campaign to save Aberdeen Arts Centre, which is facing the threat of closure after a recent bid for £170,000 funding was rejected by the city council. Those running the theatre say they're determined the curtain won't fall for a final time and have launched a public appeal for help. Aberdeen City Council said the funding application submitted by the centre wasn't accepted as it didn't meet its guidance for grant-giving. The centre, which is operated by Castlegate Arts, has been staging productions since the 1960s, hosting a number of well-known amateur dramatic groups and community projects. It has now launched a £660,000 fundraising appeal over three years, with an initial target of raising £180,000 by 1 July this year. Main, who is from the city, and plays nurse Shelagh Turner in the popular series, featured in many performances at the arts centre as a teenager. She told BBC Scotland News the experiences inspired her to pursue a career in acting. "When I first stepped foot in this place at the end of the 80s, that was the moment that made my life go in a certain direction," she said. "It's about the community, it's about coming together as a team and putting on shows. "It's just a really incredibly special place, that means an awful lot to a huge amount of people. "The thought of Aberdeen losing this place is quite frightening really. It would be tragic." The Centre's Interim Executive Director, Sharon Catchpole, said the centre filled a gap in the city that other venues couldn't match. "We've got this fantastic building but the maintenance and the cost of and heating and lighting it is significant - and rising all the time," she said. "We have, 35 different community amateur groups that use us, 35,000 people come and see our shows, and some of those groups have 2,000 plus children who need backstage space. "We have found ourselves in a situation more recently where funding that we were used to getting, we didn't succeed in obtaining, so that's put us in an even more precarious position." Ms Catchpole said they still had bookings until 2027, were "very much still open", and were continuing to operate in a normal way – but they needed the public's help. "We are looking for people to dip their hands in their pocket and please just give us a small amount. It all counts," she added. "Just please help us to save our Aberdeen Arts Centre." An Aberdeen City Council spokesman said: "The Castlegate Arts application to the council's culture investment programme, which was considered at the budget on 5 March, did not comply with the 'following the public pound' guidance for grant giving. "Unfortunately, the council is not able to provide any financial assistance to organisations which do not meet these national legislative requirements. "Castlegate Arts continue to receive support from the Common Good fund to cover the costs of renting the art centre from Aberdeen City Council." He added that council finance officers had scheduled a meeting with the centre's accountants at the end of the month. More stories from North East Scotland, Orkney and Shetland Listen to news from North East Scotland on BBC Sounds
