Z-arts awarded £1.1 million Arts Council funding and shortlisted for Lever Prize as they embark on a new Children’s Theatre Programme and North West Network.
As they launch their autumn programme Z-arts has been given a fantastic boost by being awarded £1.1 million from the Arts Council of England. Part of this money will be used to redevelop existing studio space into a new performance space, helping continue their support for Sustained Theatre Up North. The rest of the funds will be used to build an exciting new Children’s theatre programme and touring network across the North West. As a testament to their continued efforts to inspire and engage young people across the region they’ve been shortlisted for the prestigious Lever Prize.
Z-arts are delighted to announce £1.1 million of funding from the Arts Council of England. This is a great honour and to our knowledge the first time an organisation outside of the Arts Council’s National Portfolio have received such substantial financial backing. £237,000 will be used to launch a new North West Children’s Theatre Network which will bring the very best in children’s theatre to Z-arts and venues across the region. The programme will kick off this Christmas at Z-arts with a unique retelling of Pinocchio featuring dance, music and incredible puppetry. Directed by Benji Reid and in association with Breaking Cycles, this spectacular show set in 1970’s Moss Side is not to be missed. Pinocchio will tour the region as part of the Theatre Network along with other exciting performances, culminating in a region-wide Children’s Theatre Festival next Easter. The network will be made up from 15 premier North West organisations including The Duke’s in Lancaster, Burnley Mechanics and The Citadel in St. Helens.
A further £836,000 is being used to redevelop the Z-arts building which has been serving the community for 100 years. Continuing our commitment to Sustained Theatre Up North their older studio is being remodeled as a dynamic performance space for their use. They are proud to facilitate Sustained Theatre’s ambition to create a new inclusive landscape for British culture with Black, Asian, and minority ethnic theatre. The existing office hub will be converted into a world-class facility for creative people across the community and we will be improving accessibility throughout the Z-arts building.
Z-arts are very pleased to announce that The North West Business Leadership Team have shortlisted us as one of four outstanding cultural organisations for the prestigious Lever Prize 2013. CEO Liz O’Neill says “It is fantastic to be recognized and supported for the work we do in supporting creative development and our ambition to become Manchester’s dedicated venue for children and families”
This fantastic news comes as Z-arts launch the autumn programme which includes an exciting and varied array of participatory activities, shows and events. Full details can be found at www.z-arts.org
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