A new campaign, titled #LetUsDance, is calling for the UK government to help the nightlife sector.
In July, the government announced that a £1.57 billion emergency package would be used to preserve Britain’s cultural, arts and heritage institutions. Boris Johnson said, “From iconic theatre and musicals, mesmerising exhibitions at our world-class galleries to gigs performed in local basement venues, the UK’s cultural industry is the beating heart of this country”
“This money will help safeguard the sector for future generations, ensuring arts groups and venues across the UK can stay afloat and support their staff whilst their doors remain closed and curtains remain down.”
However, it remains unclear as to whether the government’s “biggest ever one-off investment” will go towards clubs and festivals. Previously, Culture Secretary Oliver Dowden said the investment will be used to support the “crown jewels” of the arts sector.
Organised by the UK Night Time Economy & Events Sector, the #LetUsDance campaign is calling for the government to include clubs and festivals in the pandemic relief arts package. The Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) is urging people to write to their MP. Head here to find your MP, and submit a template email. NTIA is also calling for people to post their last club, festival or event picture with the hashtag #LetUsDance online.
Stars from the UK’s Dance Music Club and Events sector, are today issuing an urgent plea for support from the UK Government, and to recognised as important part of the UK’s art and culture.
Support #LetUsDance Campaign by uploading the last club or event photo or Emailing your MP pic.twitter.com/ol8fFxX8Bf— NTIA (@wearethentia) July 23, 2020
Music Venue Trust supports the #LetUsDance campaign.
The dance music sector should be recognised as a vital part of the nation’s art & culture: It is an essential component of the live music sector. pic.twitter.com/GupRI15Rht
— Music Venue Trust (@musicvenuetrust) July 23, 2020
#LetUsDance – We NEED your support 🖤
Today we make an urgent plea to the Government to support the UK’s world leading dance music & events Sector.
We must be protected as an important part of the nation’s art & culture. Image below shows how you can support 👇🏻 @wearethentia pic.twitter.com/zvRy8P4Hcz
— E1 London (@E1LDN) July 23, 2020
Nightclubs and Festivals are an important part of our nation’s Art and Culture sector.
We believe it is important this is recognised, especially over the challenging period ahead for us all.#LetUsDance pic.twitter.com/DukztWKFbi
— Printworks London (@Printworks_LDN) July 23, 2020
It’s easy to forget that we’ve had so many incredible nights as a club during the pandemic.
Today, we’re calling on the Government to protect our industry and ensure we can continue to provide memories for artists, promoters, venues and ravers for years to come. #letusdance pic.twitter.com/AooOcMLCnt
— Lakota – Bristol (@LakotaBristol) July 23, 2020