Arts centre delight as grant secures future (From Gazette & Herald)

Helmsley Arts centre delight as grant secures future

2:50pm Wednesday 26th September 2012 in News By Karen Darley

Helmsley Arts Centre has been awarded almost £100,000 by Arts Council England to continue its activities over the next two years.

The venue, which has a 140-seat auditorium and 40-seat studio/exhibition space, has provided film screenings, live music, theatre performances, comedy clubs, art exhibitions and workshops/classes to tens of thousands of people since opening its doors in 2001.

Artistic director Em Whitfield Brooks said the grant of £99,998 was essential to help the arts centre’s small team of paid staff to develop and promote the arts programme.

“We are delighted at the news,” she said. “This funding will help us to carry on the great work that we started a year ago, trying to attract new audiences while entertaining our current audience.”

Em added: “We have a fantastic new programme planned for this autumn. We really have something for everyone – from exciting new writers to pantomime, tribute bands and classical recitals.”

Em said that this season Helmsley Arts Centre has launched National Theatre live and Bolshoi Ballet live – with screenings directly into their auditorium of world class performances.

An exciting new literary programme was also planned which including poet and performer Rommi Smith and a one-day creative writing workshop.

She said: “The arts centre is a gem in this region – we need everyone’s support to help us to continue.”

Full programme details and tickets are available for all events online www.helmsleyarts.co.uk Anyone who would like become a volunteer at the centre can phone for details on 01439 771700.