UK Theatre and SOLT welcome the Government’s Youth Performing Partnerships announcement

We welcome today's announcement by Jeremy Wright QC MP, the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport.

In response to this announcement, Julian Bird, Chief Executive of SOLT and UK Theatre, said:

‘Today’s Performing Arts Partnerships announcement by the Secretary of State is a welcome addition to the vital bedrock of ongoing support for theatre from local and national government.

It is encouraging to see that developing a new generation of off-stage theatre professionals is at the heart of this initiative. This complements UK Theatre and SOLT’s existing Workforce Strategy and Inspiring the Future of Theatre programme, and we hope it will help to strengthen and widen theatre’s talent pool.

A joined-up approach between local communities, theatre organisations and schools is essential. We look forward to supporting Arts Council England, DCMS and both UK Theatre and SOLT members to deliver and shape this initiative.’