LONDON, ENGLAND.-The Grants for the arts programme in the North East awards millions of pounds annually to the arts and has awarded £4,337,348.98 throughout 2005/2006. It invests in artists and arts projects that bring communities closer together and provide a catalyst for economic growth. Funding from Grants for the arts enables projects to evolve and provides people in the North East the opportunity to experience arts activities of the highest quality. The programme distributes money from the National Lottery and from Government and is open to a wide range of groups and individuals.

This month’s successful projects cover a wide range of arts activity, which includes: NO-FI which will be hosting 16 adventurous music events featuring international artists mostly new to appearing in the North East and many local artists. The diverse range of events will be hosted across various NewcastleGateshead venues; Mandeep Kallu will deliver Songs in the key of spice a contemporary Indian music workshop based in the North East, focusing on the fusion of traditional punjabi and hindi influences and fusing them with modern styles. Those taking part will gain experience with professional musicians.

Commenting on the latest round of awards, Alison Clark-Jenkins, Director Arts & Development, Arts Council England, North East said: ‘Our ambition for 2006-8 is to put the arts at the heart of national life and people at the heart of the arts. The grants given in November enable arts organisations and artists to make their work available to more and more people.’

For more information about the Grants for the arts programme, including how to make an application, contact Arts Council England on 0845 300 6200 or visit www.artscouncil.org.uk/funding.