Arts, Business & the Environment 2018

Sponsored by The Waterloo Foundation & University of Wales Trinity Saint David

Winner: Cardiff Harbour Authority & Port of Milford Haven

Sara Aicken, Port of Milford Haven, Anna Ryder Richardson & Natalie Taylor, Cardiff Harbour Authority

Image by Glenn Edwards

The judges praised Cardiff Harbour Authority and Port of Milford Haven for their vision in commissioning a drama to address a common challenge. The businesses sponsored Theatr na nÓg to devise and perform a play that raised awareness of the dangers of swimming and tombstoning in busy maritime areas in Cardiff Bay and Milford Haven. The theatre company worked with pupils from years 6-8 in both places, as well as giving public performances on the waterfronts. Would you Jump? was seen by over 1,000 people and both businesses reported a decrease in anti-social behaviour during Summer 2017. The project was so successful in promoting a key water safety message that the sponsors have increased their investment in 2018. This will enable a second stage, involving writing workshops for pupils in both Cardiff and Milford Haven, who will develop a sequel to the original play. The judges agreed that this impressive collaboration was the clear winner of this category.

Finalists

Coastal Housing Group

Regenerating Swansea’s High Street was the basis for the partnership between Coastal Housing and Volcano Theatre when it began in 2009. Both are based in High Street and work to bring life back to the area. In 2017, they aimed to engage new audiences through a diverse programme which brought together artists, schools, traders and residents. This included the Troublemakers Festival, which attracted an audience of thousands. The multi-layered partnership continues to be a catalyst for change in the city.

Mostyn Estates

As a long established supporter of the arts, Mostyn Estates is firmly committed to regeneration and stimulating community involvement in the town of Llandudno. Working with Culture Action Llandudno, a range of projects, including a free art school and a pop-up museum, engaged  almost 4,500 people. Over 20 artists were involved, delivering everything from small scale courses to large projects such as the Photomarathon event and exhibition in a wide-ranging programme of innovative creative activity.