Page 19 - link magazine

See us on the net @ www.swindonlink.com The Link Magazine • August 1998 19
Arts space under threat

West Swindon could lose its only major arts and performance facility, the Link Arts Suite, unless a way to make it pay can be found.
An initial report to a Swindon to jazz, rock and classical concerts, manager Roger Byrne said it had "We still require a conference
Council direct labour organisation dance, theatre, comedy, film and been difficult to effectively use the and performance space and pro-
committee on 29 July proposes that is being used by local schools for art suite ever since dedicated staff pose to upgrade the Link's com-
the arts suite be turned into a Ac- performances. had been cut from the budget sev- munity suite hail by installing mov-
tive Lifestyle health and fitness Link Centre manager Alan eral years ago. Now that the coun- able seating and theatre lighting."
centre. A further report to the Richards recognises the unique cil's financial position is so poor, Greendown teacher Tim Noble
community and leisure committee nature of the Arts Suite. "It is a ways of generating funds are be- who has worked throughout this
is expected in the autumn. shame that it has been under uti- ing looked at. term with children from Salt Way
The suite includes a 150 capac- lised," he said, acknowledging "The Link Centre health suite is School on The Odyssey said it
ity performance venue with light- that, as a sports and leisure facil- now outdated and too small. With would be tragic if the Arts Suite
ing, sound and projection facili- ity, the centre management lacks the growth of West and North closed. "It is the only purpose
ties. As well as a foyer with bar, the knowledge and expertise to Swindon, we believe there is a mar- built performance venue in the
there are also craft and photo- market an arts venue effectively. ket for a high quality active life- area; it cannot be matched in
graphic studios. It has played host Swindon Council's recreation style centre. schools. With the autumn Shake-
speare Festival and other projects
in mind, a way must be found to
Greek adventures stretch primary pupils keep it available to the arts."
Legends from 1460 BC were brought to life at Link Centre arts studio by children from Salt Way School. Andy Skittrall, organiser of the
concert for the NSPCC, see below,
Forty-six performers took part in The said, "there's a great need for a
Hero's Journey on 20 July, a one and a place where bands can perform;
half hour play written and directed by there are so many talented people
Greendown School teacher Tim No- in the area."
ble, at the end of a term's rehearsal. The Link Centre is keen to hear
The play draws on the myths spun from existing users as to their needs
in the Odyssey, depicting the series of and whether these can be accom-
fantastic adventures during the ten modated elsewhere in the build-
years it took Homer, one of the heros of ing. If a way can be found to
the Trojan Wars, to return home. ensure that the existing facilities
"The Odyssey is one of the greatest were better used and self-support-
stories ever told," said Tim. "It's full of ing, it is not yet too late.
mythical beings and unusual happen- If the council approves changes
ings, but its still relevant to how we in use, work would not start until
discover who we are as individuals." the middle of 1999.
The sinking performance demanded
discipline from the cast, many of whom
had long passages to learn and per- ROTTEN WOOD?
form. A Greek chorus of eight chil- PEELING PAINT
dren, unmoving and unsmiling, spoke
in verse, explaining the context of DRIPPING GUTTERS?
scenes to the enraptured audience.
Salt Way headteacher Sue Butcher said year 6 National Curriculum study of the Greeks had come alive.
"It's been wonderful how the children have exceeded expectations. They have been motivated to research SOLUT ON
their characters and have put everything into the theatrical experience.
"Tim Noble's contribution has been outstanding; the project has been an excellent example of how Maintenance free
primary and secondary schools can work together." UPVC fascia boards
cladding & guttering
Pop gig raises NSPCC cash Expertly fitted at DIY prices

Three hours of live music by local performers rocked the Link Centre arts suite at a FREE SURVEY
charity concert on 10 July, sponsored by The Link magazine, in aid of the NSPCC NO 1)EPOSII'
Centenary Challenge.
Twelve year old guitarist Chris Butcher In between the groups, soloists Becky Work it out for yourself
launched the evening, followed by Axis. Grey, Sam Jenner and Gemma Whitmarsh 20' fascia board fitted £ 50
Fade played some catchy numbers, then kept the programme moving along. 20' fascia & gutter fitted £115
made way for a polished half hour set by Gig organiser Andy Skittrall said the 20' fascia, soffit & gutter £175
Tripper. Semi-professionals Anish corn- bands all enjoyed playing. He estimated 20' fascia & soffit £110
Becky Grey pleted the night. that £250 had been raised for the charity. (prices correct at time of publication)
Clive Connolly of Fade
Mark Bateman of Tripper Anish Harrison Lewis Garrett of Axis

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