From cinema programmers to orchestra CEOs, figures across the arts world reveal what 14 years of Tory rule has done to the sector – and whether a change of government would improve anything

The October 2023 statement from Leeds music and clubbing venue Sheaf St did not mince its words. “Sadly, the world is not on our side right now,” it said, before shutting its doors for the last time. “Our industry is facing a real crisis, post-pandemic, with low attendance, rising costs, increasing fees, significantly reduced spend, and skyrocketing utilities and stock costs. The business is no longer sustainable and cannot recover.” Sheaf St had established itself at the heart of a creative community. It combined high-profile dance acts (Nicky Siano, DJ Yoda, Crazy P and many more) with a generous approach to engagement that included open-deck sessions and yoga classes. Sadly, this wasn’t enough.

Across the country, similar stories abound. These tales of decline, struggle and eventual defeat encompass every artistic discipline, at every level. They include nightclubs and classical orchestras, comedy venues and theatres, independent cinemas and grassroots music venues. There are threats to public service broadcasting and a sense of almost complete abandonment of arts provision in state schools. The arts pyramid is in danger of collapse. This crisis represents a tangible threat to a huge national income generator (£108bn in 2021) and a primary source of UK soft power. But of course, it’s much more than that.

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7.30pm, BBC Four
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9pm, ITV1
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