The Dukes receives lifeline grant from Culture Recovery Fund
In a statement released on their website and social media, The Dukes said that they were “delighted” and “extremely grateful” for the funding, describing the grant as a “much-valued lifeline”.
The organisation, which celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2021, noted that the financial support will help them to continue to “[provide] and [develop] engaging work, on and off stage, for and with the communities of the Lancaster District and Lancashire county.”
The Dukes plays a significant role in Lancashire, from presenting and producing exciting and thought-provoking live performance, to collaborating with local creative talents, fellow arts organisations and businesses, partnering with Lancaster University and teaming up with communities to deliver projects.
Although The Dukes successfully and safely reopened their independent cinema in August and welcomed back social distanced live theatre and youth groups in September, they acknowledge that there are still challenges that face them and their industry moving forwards.
However, they are now looking forward with a sense of hope for arts and culture in Lancaster and beyond.
Director of The Dukes, Karen O’Neill said “This morning we have been able to breathe a sigh of relief at the good news that we have been successful in securing a grant from the Culture Recovery Fund. This grant will help to further secure the future of the Dukes and ensure that this vital cultural asset remains part of the Lancaster District and county.
“We are very grateful to Arts Council England, DCMS and HM Treasury for this support and also send a big, big thank you to our supporters, audiences, communities, volunteers and staff who continue to make incredible things happen at the Dukes. Although there are still challenges ahead, we are now looking toward the future with a renewed sense of hope and positivity for arts and culture in Lancaster.”