Circus Starr receives lifeline grant from Government's £1.57bn Culture Recovery Fund
By Tom Avery
16th Oct 2020 | Local News
Circus Starr has been awarded £317,551 as part of the Government's £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund (CRF) to help face the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic and to ensure they have a sustainable future.
Congleton-based Circus Starr is one of 1,385 cultural and creative organisations across the country receiving urgently needed support.
£257 million of investment has been announced as part of the very first round of the Culture Recovery Fund grants programme being administered by Arts Council England.
Further rounds of funding in the cultural and heritage sector are due to be announced over the coming weeks.
The community interest company have spent over 30 years holding accessible and inclusive circus shows for vulnerable and disadvantaged children.
Tickets to their events are free, meaning that families who never usually get the chance to enjoy live arts are finally able to in a safe environment.
Their performances are "world class" and showcase an array of "entertaining" acts from around the globe, ranging from the classic clown to "stunning" aerial skills.
The funding provided will allow Circus Starr to remain open and work towards fundraising for their future shows after the impact of the coronavirus.
They plan to return in 2021, where their schedule sees them make a difference in 74 communities throughout the UK with performances in both indoor venues and their starry Big Top tent.
Michelle Crossley, Circus Starr director, said: "We can't express how thankful we are for this funding; we are simply over the moon.
"This support will ensure that Circus Starr can continue to share the magical art of circus with deserving children who sadly, may usually miss out.
"For over 30 years we have been uniting communities with our unique event, and we can't wait to continue making a difference."
Oliver Dowden, culture secretary, said: "This funding is a vital boost for the theatres, music venues, museums and cultural organisations that form the soul of our nation.
"It will protect these special places, save jobs and help the culture sector's recovery.
"These places and projects are cultural beacons the length and breadth of the country.
"This unprecedented investment in the arts is proof this government is here for culture, with further support to come in the days and weeks ahead so that the culture sector can bounce back strongly."
Sir Nicholas Serota, chair of Arts Council England, said: "Theatres, museums, galleries, dance companies and music venues bring joy to people and life to our cities, towns and villages.
"This life-changing funding will save thousands of cultural spaces loved by local communities and international audiences.
"Further funding is still to be announced and we are working hard to support our sector during these challenging times."
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