Email from Matthew Payne Re: Motion to discuss support for CRD Arts Service
The artistic director of The Other Guise Theatre Company expressing concern about the potential reduction of arts funding from Group 1 to Group 2.
Correspondence: Re: Motion to discuss support for CRD Arts Service
From: Matthew Payne
Sent: March 31, 2025 1:27 PM
To: Mayor And Council Email mayorandcouncil@viewroyal.ca
Subject: Re: Motion to discuss support for CRD Arts Service
Dear Mayor and Council,
I am writing in reference to the matter:
THAT the 2025 Financial Plan discussions include:
- reduce the CRD Arts funding from Group 1 to Group 2
Having hired several artists from View Royal, it is disheartening to our organization to see that consideration is being given to reducing the contribution View Royal makes to the CRD Arts Service.
In 2014, I led a production of a show that toured regional parks and appeared in View Royal in Portage Park. We performed a musical on the back of a flatbed truck in the park just behind the municipal building. The production was greeted with delight by the regular park users and our audience who sought us out there. We explained to the audience that we were touring only to CRD parks in municipalities that contributed at Group 1 level to the CRD Arts Service. Residents of View Royal were clearly proud to be among Group 1 contributors.
I expect that many of your citizens are not aware that you contribute at Group 1 level, though many of these same people benefit greatly.
A healthy discussion of this matter is important and I am pleased that Councilor Rogers draws attention to this important issue with this motion. I also note many of your bios indicate you all consider residents' suggestions on matters:
"As a team player, I believe in a collaborative approach with staff, council, residents, developers, municipal neighbours, and others. I am readily available to listen, consider any resident's suggestions and research the issues that are important to our community."
As a team player, I hope View Royal will consider collaborating with other municipalities to support the arts, a true economic generator.
I know the artists we've hired over the years from View Royal will appreciate continued support from your municipality.
Sincerely,
Matthew
--
Matthew Payne
Artistic and Executive Director
The Other Guise Theatre Company