Philanthropist Lloyd Dorfman warns cuts could hurt British culture
The philanthropist has cautioned against wounding the ‘big beasts’.
One of Britain’s biggest philanthropists has warned against any further cuts to the “power houses” of UK culture.
Funding to the National Theatre, Southbank Centre, Royal Opera House and Royal Shakespeare Company have fallen as part of a new settlement from Arts Council England which boosts cash in the regions.
He added that philanthropists are “nervous” in the current period of uncertainty.
“The organisations are getting better at growing their fundraising support, they’re becoming more commercial.
“But there’s only so far they can go. I think everyone has taken it on the chin and it’s great that the regions are getting increased support.
“But I would think governments should be careful not to wound the power houses of British and London culture by continuing to slice away at their financial support.
“Government need to be careful not to wound the big beasts too much.
The size of the gift to the Royal Academy from the philanthropist, who is the founder of the Travelex Group, was not revealed but it was described as a “seven-figure” sum.
The Royal Academy, best known for its Summer Exhibition, is undergoing redevelopment due for completion on its 250th anniversary in 2018.
It unveiled plans for a new architecture space as well as the launch of two international architecture awards.
