£200,000 FROM THE ARTS COUNCIL OF ENGLAND FURTHER DEMONSTRATES THAT THE WATERMILL THEATRE IS A NATIONAL JEWEL WORTH INVESTING IN

Press Release - 6 March 2007

The Save The Watermill Appeal received another massive boost with news that the Arts Council is contributing £200,000 through its Grants for the Arts scheme.  This grant means the theatre has now raised a staggering £2,270,000 towards the target of £3,000,000 to secure the theatre’s future.

The grant comes at a critical time for the Appeal, and will contribute to the purchase of the theatre, releasing other funds raised to go towards the essential building work.  This is the largest award that Ace has given in Berkshire since the creation of the scheme.

Sally Abbott, Director of Arts, Arts Council England, South East says:
"The Watermill is a very successful theatre, not just because of the performances it puts on, but in its educational and outreach programmes too.  It punches above its weight on the national and international scale, but it doesn't forget to serve its local communities;  as comfortable putting on plays in rural village halls as it is on Broadway.  That marriage of great quality work by established and emerging writers and directors, and commitment to its audiences is what makes The Watermill unique.  And it's why we're so pleased to be awarding this grant to them today." 

James Sargant, Executive Director, adds:
‘‘With this wonderful support from ACESE the future of the theatre is now assured with funds also being available to start the much needed building improvements in the early summer. Although this is great news we are well aware that the last tranche of money will be the hardest to raise and so fundraising continues.  We are also focusing on the recruitment of an Artistic/Executive Director to carry forward the vision of the Watermill Theatre and build further on the achievements of the late Jill Fraser, who so successfully led the theatre for 24 years.’

A further vote of confidence has been with an increase of Regular Funding given by ACE to the theatre.  In 2007/2008 The Watermill received £225,621 this has now been increased by £85,000 to £310,621 for 2008/2009.  This new investment, for operational purposes, shows how important The Watermill is to the cultural life of this country

For more information about the Save The Watermill appeal contact Susan Foster on 01635 570915 or e-mail appeal@watermill.org.uk