Equity has welcomed a new report calling for immediate and sustained action to protect the arts sector in Scotland.
The report, titled "The Disappearing Act?", was commissioned by Scotland's six producing theatres. It identifies key issues such as declining audiences and funding cuts.
Recommendations in the report include the adoption of a ‘federal’ approach to working and the creation of a new shared production company. Equity has welcomed exploring such recommendations that lead to increased production in Scotland, increased funding, and results in more jobs for our members, be they creative team, performers or stage management but Equity will seek guarantees that any proposed venture must operate on the basis of properly paid employment and that a holistic approach is taken to ensure opportunities for employment in the sector are not reduced.
The six independent producing theatres, in a joint statement, said: "“Confronting the consequences of decades of public funding reductions alongside rising costs is a daily reality for us. Whilst we recognise the strain on public resources, we also recognise that
continuing to achieve more with less is not sustainable.
“Greater collaboration is required as we face upcoming challenges and opportunities. That's why we find the proposal to adopt a common approach moving forward so compelling. Our collective diversity can serve as an asset for the people of Scotland even as we maintain our individual focus and purpose"
Adam Adnyana, Equity Official, said: "The report identifies a number of challenges that we have been highlighting for some time in our ‘Fund the Arts, Feed the Economy’ campaign, which includes a call to the Scottish Government to increase funding for the creative industries.
"Equity will continue to advocate for professionally paid employment for our members in the Scottish theatre sector, in our upcoming meetings with employers, Creative Scotland and the Culture Minister."
