Deputy culture minister urges dialogue amid funding dispute

As the spat over government funding for theatre production continues, Deputy Culture Minister Vasiliki Kassianidou said that threats are not the solution, and actors will be the ones paying the price.

The issue stems from the first half of this year’s state funding for the arts, under a scheme called Thimeli.

So far, the federation of theatrical institutions have said they suspended theatre plays and rehearsals as a form of protest, calling for Kassianidou’s resignation.

In an interview with CNA, the deputy minister said the current funding system is now far more transparent and highlighted theatres should not solely rely on state funding.

She said many of the members of the federation were irritated because they received smaller sums than expected, with the maximum grant amounting to €40,000, which no one managed to secure.

“The way the Thimeli scheme has been designed means more participants will receive funding this year.”

Effectively, 30 productions will receive financial support from the state.

“Threatening to shut down theatres is no way to deal with this. Some productions have already begun with funding from last year and are still ongoing. A lot of actors and performers are working on them, and they will be victimised by the decision of these theatres to shut down.”

Meanwhile Marianna Kafkaridou who represents the federation told CNA that around 25 people at Satiriko Theatro have lost their income for three months as a result.

“With the funding they give us, they are forcing us to shut down. This is being done without any warning, without giving us time to prepare, to find solutions or other sources for funding.

“Unfortunately, I do not see the desire and goodwill on the part of the deputy culture ministry and the state to find a solution,” she added.

Kafkaridou said they were keen to discuss the matter with the deputy minister, saying they had already reached out to Kassianidou “but she did not respond.”

They have also turned to the president who has also not responded, she added.

“If we do not immediately receive emergency support to enable us to continue working and if in a second year the necessary study and consultation for a fairer and more functional grant plan is not done, the theatre cannot make any progress with these funds.”