Arts facilities contributes towards improving social and cultural wellbeing
Scientists have recently proven what art lovers have instinctively known for years – that the experience of emotions when you’re moved by fictional characters in a play or a novel creates an empathetic experience – you put yourself in someone else’s shoes. As The Guardian reports science has shown that it actually establishes the creation of neural pathways rooted in empathy, which help to navigate life’s problems. While we may be entertained on the surface, the role of arts in the community is crucial.
When it became clear that the Marlborough Theatre was struggling to make ends meet after being supported through the Marlborough Centre Theatre Trust (MCTT) for the preceding 20 years, it was clear action was needed. The situation had to be considered in terms of what is best for the arts and Marlborough in the long term.
The Marlborough District Council through their Marlborough District Arts and Cultural Strategy Implementation document are supporters of the arts. The strategy recognises the key role of the arts in the city’s social, cultural and economic development and the vital role the arts play in improving the lives of citizens – culturally and socially as well as commercially.
Giblin Group joined the team to develop a revenue generation strategy on what were the best options for the theatre, whether this was a refurbishment or a greenfields complete rebuild. What resulted was a clear vision, to provide a centre of excellence for the performing arts in the Marlborough District, which is a modern accessible community facility for performance, teaching, promoting and nurturing the arts. It will also be a facility that can be used by community groups for meetings, displays, community forums and consultation purposes.
The MCTT believes that the provision of this facility will contribute towards improving social and cultural wellbeing in the district. Giblin Group went on to apply for significant grants.