From the Lverpool Culture Company…
The Liverpool Culture Company is taking its plans for 2008 to the heart of Europe.
On Wednesday, culture and city council chiefs will host a high-profile reception in Brussels to launch its Business Plan in front of an influential European audience.
The Liverpool Culture Company’s artistic director, Robyn Archer will outline the city’s ambitions for a stunning Capital of Culture year to MEP’s and top European Commission officials. The TV celebrity chef, and Deputy Chairman of the culture company, Loyd Grossman, will be hosting the event
Councillor Mike Storey, Leader of Liverpool City Council, said: “Liverpool was awarded Capital of Culture by the European Union, so it’s only fitting that we keep Brussels informed of the great things we have planned for 2008.
“This event will be an opportunity to raise Liverpool’s profile on the continent, and showcase our plans to give Europe the best-ever Capital of Culture year.”
The 400 guests will be treated to a taste of Liverpool’s outstanding cultural talent, with a performance by musical ensemble, Tarang, who will play a selection of north and south Indian music. Tarang is part of Milap Festival trust, which was launched in the city ten years ago as a music festival and has since developed into a regional and national force in South Asian arts.
The Business Plan details how a massive £95m is to be spent on the 2008 celebrations – one of the biggest amounts ever spent by a Capital of Culture city. More than 90 per cent of the funding needed has already been secured, including a major contribution from private companies. The budget allocates £26m for investment in stunning art and cultural venues in the city, while £12m is to be spent on promoting Liverpool as a premier European city to a national and international audience.
Chairman of the Liverpool Culture Company, Professor Drummond Bone, said: “Our Business Plan sets out how we will deliver Liverpool’s cultural plans up to and beyond 2008. We are taking our vision to Europe for the first time since winning the Capital of Culture title. There is an economic miracle taking place in Liverpool, with millions of pounds being invested in new jobs, industries and in arts and culture.
“Capital of Culture is helping transform the city into a dynamic and modern European city, which will have an incredible impact on the prosperity of Liverpool for years to come.”