The future of Creative Arts East (CAE) is at risk due to the proposed cutting of its core grant by Arts Council England; by signing this petition, adding your own comments and forwarding the link to other known CAE supporters you will help us to make a case for the Arts Council to reconsider. This needs to be done urgently as we have to make our submission by 15th January 2008 and the Regional Council meets in Cambridge on 23rd January 2008. Although Arts Council England, as a national body, has declared its support for arts provision in rural as well as urban areas, the policy for the East of England seems to run counter to this. Eastern Angles Touring Theatre, Norwich Puppet Theatre (which tours to rural schools) and other outreach organisations are threatened with total or substantial funding cuts, as well as CAE. This will have a major impact on those who live in rural areas of Norfolk and north Suffolk. Creative Arts East is best known for Village Stage, Village Screen and its annual touring exhibition. These three schemes enable local communities to present performances by professional theatre, music, puppet and dance companies, exhibitions by excellent regional artists and to screen the latest films using high quality equipment. More than 70 live shows and exhibitions and almost 100 screenings each year provide a focus for small communities to come together to share in positive and enjoyable cultural experiences. In this way CAE has supported many voluntary organisations and helped the career development of hundreds of performers and artists. Creative Arts East also provides participatory activities for old and young people in rural Norfolk - hundreds of young people have taken part in music, art, creative writing and drama workshops, courses and summer schools in the last couple of years; older people in residential homes have taken part in artist-led creative activities; individuals and organisations working with disabled people have benefited from training, advice and support; and many local artists, writers, performers, musicians and designers have been employed to deliver high quality and enjoyable activities for all ages. If you are from an organisation that has benefited from CAE\'s support or activities, a member of the public who has enjoyed and valued a CAE production, or an arts professional who has been helped by the organisation please sign this petition and add your comments. If you wish to write to your MP or a member of Arts Council England\'s Regional Council to protest at this proposed cut please send a copy to CAE. If you need further information contact Creative Arts East on 01953 713390 or email sarah@creativeartseast.co.uk.

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