Timothy Spall Advocates for Arts Funding

Timothy Spall has called on the next UK government not to treat the arts as an economic bloodsucker emphasizing the importance of the creative industries to society. He praised the Lowry theatre and gallery for its community connections and financial sustainability, contributing 47.7 million pounds to the UK economy. Julia Fawcett, CEO of the Lowry, noted the venue's success as a testament to the economic power of arts and culture.

Timothy Spall has called on the next UK government not to treat the arts as an economic 'bloodsucker,' emphasizing the importance of the creative industries to society.

Speaking ahead of the 25th anniversary of the Lowry theatre and gallery in Salford, Spall highlighted that arts and culture are for everyone, not just an elite few.

He praised the Lowry for its community connections and limited reliance on public funding, contributing £47.7 million to the UK economy while sustaining itself financially.

Julia Fawcett, CEO of the Lowry, noted that the venue's success is a testament to the economic power of arts and culture, mirroring the revitalization seen in areas like Margate and Bilbao.

Spall, who has a long-standing association with the Lowry, urged broader accessibility to arts funding, reflecting on his own experiences as a student supported by public funds.