From June 2019, Night Out from the Arts Council of Wales will be partnering with Ceredigion County Council to remove the financial risk of staging professional shows in the community. Night Out can help to book a plethora of fantastic shows of all varieties from drama to jazz; circus to classical - small-scale performances to fit all types of venues.
Ceredigion County Council is proud of its investment in cultural and artistic activities within the county” says Elen James, Chief Lead Officer for Lifelong Learning and Culture, “It’s a pleasure to work alongside the Arts Council of Wales in launching the Night Out Scheme, that will benefit organisations and communities throughout the county”
An integral part of rural and community arts over the last thirty-nine years, Night Out supports around 500 shows throughout Wales each year, working with more than 300 local promoter groups. Performing companies such as Theatr Bara Caws and Sherman Cymru have toured extensively with help from the scheme as have musicians like Jamie Smith’s Mabon, Siân James, Bryn Fôn and Candelas.
“The Night Out scheme in Ceredigion will give groups and organisations in the county the potential to increase the already vibrant cultural and creative offer within the county, it will enable communities to draw in different performances and artists and take creative risks with programming.“ says Dwynwen Lloyd Llywelyn, Head of Theatr Felinfach.
Not-for profit groups and organisations, including village hall committees; Merched y Wawr; Young Farmers; Community Councils and schools have all taken the plunge and successfully organised professional performances for their communities, bringing high-qualityshows to their audiences and providing access to the performing arts to those unable to travel very far.
One rural promoter from mid Wales puts it very simply when she says: “without Night Out there would be a hole in the cultural life of our village”, while a community promoter from South Wales states: “we couldn't afford to host these events without Night Out and our audiences appreciate them greatly”.
Night Out Manager Peter Gregory is thrilled to welcome Ceredigion County Council to the scheme:
“In a time of austerity, it is fantastic that Ceredigion realises the importance of arts and culture to the wellbeing of their communities. A great Night Out with music and theatre, storytelling or puppetry is good for the soul and helps give everyone a chance to get together and enjoy themselves. We look forward to a long and productive partnership”.
For more information about Night Out and performers available to book visit www.nightout.org.uk or phone the Night out team on 02920 441340