Cash boost for performing arts schools

Prime Minister Helen Clark psoes with dancer Ingrid Gow and actors (from left) Dan Caddy, Aaron Cortesi and Michael Walley at Te Whaea: National Dance and Drama Centre in Wellington yesterday. Picture / Mark Mitchell

Dance and drama are getting a $1.8 million leg up.

The additional spending, announced yesterday by Prime Minister Helen Clark, will support Toi Whakaari: New Zealand Drama School and the New Zealand School of Dance, both of which are based at wellington's Te Whaea: National Dance and Drama Centre.

Both schools had sought a review of their baseline funding and had raised concerns over their future financial viability.

Helen Clark said the funding increase underscored Labour's commitment to a vibrant arts and culture sector in New Zealand.

"Both Toi Whakaari and the New Zealand School of Dance have a vital role to play in supporting the performing arts," she said.

"The Government wants to ensure the schools continue to offer opportunities for realising the potential of the incredible pool of talent we have in New Zealand."

The funding, over four years, will be used for infrastructure development and to attract and retain staff needed to maintain and build the capability of both schools.

- NZPA