The Dukes in Lancaster has entered a new era in its work with thousands of young people. The theatre’s Creative Learning Department has bucked the trend by increasing its staff as a direct result of work carried out over the last five years.
This work has also been recognised by Arts Council England which has awarded DT3 outstanding status for the second year running.
Joining creative learning director Guy Christiansen, associate director Louie Ingham and creative learning practitioner Jay Walton on the DT3 team is Paul Adams in the new role of creative learning officer.
And Paul’s been thrown in at the deep end, working with six Lancaster schools on Light Up The Waterways, a canal-based project which culminates in an outdoor event in October.
New creative learning practitioner, Jay Walton, whose part-time post is funded by Lancashire County Council’s Young People’s Service, now directs The Dukes Junior Youth Theatre and liaises with other services in the community including libraries, museums and youth centres.
Meanwhile, Live at LICA and The Dukes, together with Lancaster University’s Alumni and Development team, have been awarded £79,000 over two years by the Catalyst Arts scheme, backed by ACE.
The money will enable both organisations to raise the level, scope and ambition of their fundraising activity and will feed into their business plans from 2015.
Live at LICA director, Matt Fenton said: “We're delighted to be working with The Dukes and Lancaster University's Alumni and Development team on this significant project.
"It will see both arts organisations develop a detailed understanding of fundraising and I hope this will help us to thrive, reach new audiences and make more great art happen here in Lancaster."