By Denise Goodall
The performing arts hold an essential role in promoting creativity, community well-being, and economic growth. Aberdeen has recognised this importance and is taking strategic steps to enhance its cultural sector through the Culture Investment Framework (CIF).
A key aspect of the CIF is the integration of modernised technology and innovation to support and transform Aberdeen’s performing arts sector. For instance, venues will adopt energy-efficient systems and renewable energy sources, reducing the environmental impact of performances. Digital platforms will be leveraged to stream events, making them accessible to wider audiences, including those unable to attend in person.
These efforts will not only modernise the city’s performing arts but also ensure they remain relevant and accessible in a rapidly changing world. From healthcare to education and entertainment, these advancements drive efficiency, expand outreach, and spark creativity.
Strategic Investment in Cultural Organisations
The CIF introduces a new funding structure to replace the previous static and inconsistent model. The updated approach is designed to allocate resources transparently and based on measurable outcomes. Beginning in 2024, Aberdeen-based, not-for-profit cultural organisations will be able to apply for grants to support their operations and projects.
An average of £12 million is invested in culture annually, with £1.5 million allocated to external grants. Under the CIF, a two-stage competitive process will determine funding. Applicants must submit business plans demonstrating how their activities align with Aberdeen’s priorities, including improving access to the arts and supporting community well-being. Successful organisations will enter multi-year funding agreements, providing stability and fostering long-term planning.
Expanding Access to the Arts
Aberdeen has identified socio-economic and geographic disparities in access to the arts. The CIF addresses this issue by prioritising initiatives that engage underserved communities and promote inclusivity. Programmes will be designed to reach various groups, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate in high-quality cultural activities.
Key measures include outreach initiatives such as community workshops. These efforts aim to build confidence, enhance mental well-being, and inspire creativity among people. Cultural education will play a pivotal role in reducing reliance on reactive services by providing preventative support.
By expanding access to the arts, Aberdeen reinforces the role of culture as a unifying force that fosters understanding and collaboration among diverse communities.
Supporting Sustainability in Cultural Practices
Environmental sustainability is a major focus of the CIF, reflecting Aberdeen’s broader climate goals. The performing arts sector is expected to contribute significantly to reducing the city’s carbon emissions by 61% by 2026. Cultural organisations will adopt sustainable practices and integrate climate awareness into their programming.
Venues will implement energy-efficient operations, including the use of renewable energy sources and waste reduction initiatives. The Theatre Green Book framework will guide organisations in adopting sustainable building and operational standards. In addition, cultural projects will incorporate environmental themes, encouraging audiences to engage with climate issues through creative expression.
Strengthening Economic and Organisational Resilience
The CIF recognises the performing arts as a key contributor to the local economy. Efforts are focused on fostering economic resilience and creating a supportive environment for cultural organisations to thrive. By reducing dependency on public funding and encouraging business model innovation, the framework aims to ensure long-term stability for the cultural sector.
Job creation within the creative industries is a priority. Training programmes and mentorship opportunities will address skills gaps and support the development of local talent. The city also plans to increase its share of national cultural funding, reducing reliance on local resources and enabling further investment in new projects.
Promoting Aberdeen as a Cultural Destination
A core objective of the CIF is to celebrate and promote Aberdeen’s cultural identity. The framework supports festivals, events, and creative initiatives that showcase the city’s rich heritage and contemporary creativity. By refreshing its cultural and tourism strategies, Aberdeen aims to attract both local and international visitors.
Attendance at flagship festivals is expected to grow by 25% by 2028. Community-led projects will highlight diverse narratives, ensuring that all voices are represented in the city’s cultural offerings. These initiatives are projected to contribute an additional £10 million annually to the local economy through increased tourism and hospitality spending.
Denise Goodall, the author, is free-lance journalist who specialises in matters relating to the Scottish Economy
