FUNDING OF THE ARTS IN BATH

Introduced by Karl Jaeger, member, on 25 March 1999

The speaker is Chairman of the Bath Arts Association, which had a `drop in' centre for about

three years, some time ago. He wished to revive this concept.

He hopes to find premises that can be adapted to provide two film / conference facilities, one larger than the other, with raked seating. There would also be a cafe / restaurant / bar; rehearsal rooms and gallery space. A shop selling related objects would provide income. He hopes that such a facility would be used by BRLSI.

Members of the group discussed the concept. Some thought that as we move to a 24-hour society, facilities of this kind would be needed, but a balance would have to be struck with the wishes of nearby residents. The premises might appeal to tourists who often want to `go on' somewhere after a theatre, etc.

The Director of Drama & Creative Arts at Bath University, Mr Milne, said that although there were many facilities on campus, the students appreciated opportunities in the City; particularly those students who lodged there. The proposed arts centre would be popular.

The annual musical festival wins national acclaim yet there is no auditorium in the City with really good acoustics.

Karl Jaeger can be reached on 317024.

Rodney Tye