A new playbook for UK theatres advises that engaging with Reform UK is 'no longer optional' if venues wish to secure the party's support. The UK Theatre Member Toolkit for Reform Engagement, developed with consultancy firm Portland, aims to 'identify common ground with Reform stakeholders'.
Background and Concerns
This move follows Equity branding Nigel Farage's party 'the single biggest threat to the performing arts industry' and warning that arts funding might 'disappear' if Reform gained power. The toolkit acknowledges that organisations must 'determine the extent to which they wish to engage with policies and politicians whose views may not align with their own', but it 'provides guidance on messaging most likely to land with Reform representatives'.
Key Recommendations
- Proactive Invitations: Theatres are urged to invite Reform councillors to productions, as this 'will repeatedly open doors in a way that formal meetings will not'.
- Positioning as Investment Partners: Venues should focus on 'theatre as infrastructure that supports town centres' and provide economic data on jobs and visitor spend.
- Avoid Certain Language: The guide advises against using terms like 'subsidy' or 'cultural entitlement'.
Engagement Strategy
The toolkit encourages treating Reform representatives as 'serious local decision makers with their own priorities and pressures' and taking 'a genuine interest in what matters to them'. Portland's advice states: 'With these decision makers now shaping funding priorities in their areas, engaging with them is no longer optional – it is essential to securing support for your theatre.'
Official Statement
A spokesperson for the Society of London Theatre and UK Theatre said: 'We support our members with practical guidance on a range of issues. This toolkit is part of an ongoing programme of work to equip theatres to navigate a changing local and national political landscape and to engage with politicians of all parties. It is a non-partisan guide for communicating the value of theatre and culture to elected representatives and election candidates.'
