Get the latest gossip

Imelda Staunton and Olivia Colman call for urgent political support for the arts


Exclusive: Actors call for all parties to back investment as figures suggest 16% cuts since 2017

Staunton said: “We’re living in a golden age of drama, especially on streaming platforms, thanks to the exceptional ability of the UK arts workforce to bring world-class storytelling to global audiences. Photograph: Alex Bailey/APThe Bafta and Olivier award-winning actor, who has starred in the likes of Vera Drake, Harry Potter and The Crown, added: “With proper funding, there is no limit to the potential for the arts to inspire and entertain, encouraging both human creativity and economic benefits. They are also asking for an end to the legal exemption that allows casting directories to charge upfront fees to performing artists; a reform of universal credit to provide freelancers with the same protections as the employed; a requirement that all publicly funded work be produced on Equity agreements; and an extension to trade union-bargained royalties to areas like video games and TV commercials.

Get the Android app

Or read this on The Guardian

Read more on:

Photo of Imelda Staunton

Imelda Staunton

Photo of Olivia Colman

Olivia Colman

Related news:

News photo

Roses FIRST LOOK: Olivia Colman and Benedict Cumberbatch skip through the streets as they film remake of Hollywood classic War Of The Roses - in Devon!

News photo

Kate McKinnon And Andy Samberg Join Benedict Cumberbatch And Olivia Colman In ‘The Roses’ At Searchlight

News photo

Benedict Cumberbatch lifts lid on his wild karaoke night with Olivia Colman and Amy Adams after the 2019 BAFTAs - where Melissa McCarthy joked she'd 'kill him' if he sang well