CAF news covers the latest arts news stories, opportunities to get involved in the arts and information on member activities.

Latest news stories

28/07/2010
OFMDFM launches consultation for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration
The new Programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration has been released for consultation.

This is an important document and statement of policy intentions towards the renewal of interface communities.

The consultation was launched by first minister Peter Robinson and deputy first minister Martin McGuinness. Mr Robinson said: "We have all come a long way in the past decade and it is important that we now build on the good work that has already been achieved in shaping a better future for everyone.

"We want to build a society where everyone shares in and enjoys the benefits of peace and stability. The Programme for Cohesion, Sharing and Integration will address issues impacting on disaffected young people, tackle the conditions that perpetuate urban interfaces and rural segregation, as well as addressing those issues facing both established minority ethnic groups and new arrivals within our community.

"We look forward to hearing the views of people from right across our society and we would encourage everyone to take the opportunity to either attend a public meeting or to respond in writing. It is important that you have your say on how we can make our society a better place for everyone."

You can view the document at: www.nidirect.gov.uk/index/government-citizens-and-rights/government-1/public-consultations/featured-consultations.htm

Public meetings will take place at a range of locations throughout September.

Wednesday 1 September, Derry/Londonderry
Monday 6 September, Belfast
Tuesday 7 September, Newry
Thursday 9 September, Cookstown
Monday 13 September, Ballymena
Wednesday 15 September, Enniskillen
Tuesday 21 September, Newtownards
Wednesday 22 September, Portadown
Monday 27 September, Armagh
Wednesday 29 September, Omagh

Written responses to the consultation can be sent to:

Cohesion, Sharing and Integration Project Team
Telephone: 028 9052 8497
Fax: 028 9052 3272
Text phone: 028 9052 2526
Email: csi@ofmdfmni.gov.uk
www.ofmdfmni.gov.uk/index/equality/community-relations.htm

Closing date for responses: 29 October 2010.

27/07/2010
Audition for new members - Fringe Benefits Theatre Company
Fringe Benefits Theatre Company is holding its next workshop audition for potential new members on Saturday 4th September in the Crescent Arts Centre at 2pm.

If you are interested in working and learning with a dynamic and talented group of people, are aged 18+ ( no upper age limit), have a real desire to develop theatre skill and also make a career in theatre, the arts or entertainment business - then come along.

You will receive up to 5 hours weekly professional training provided by recognised experts in their field; you will develop skills in acting, stage craft and production; you will have the opportunity to participate in productions, direct, stage manage, etc.
In return you will have a commitment to the idea of collective learning, and to assisting in the continuing development of Belfast's only ensemble training and performance company. It requires commitment to the ethos of the Company, energy, creativity, and a willingness to learn and work hard.

If you are available on Saturdays for training, and as and when required for productions, then come along. Please register your intention to attend with Cathy McCullough at www.fringebenefitstheatrecompany.com

27/07/2010
Community theatre event - in memory of Sammy Ferrin and Mary Seymour
Tongue ‘n Cheek Community Theatre Company will be hosting a fundraising event in memory of their valued members Sammy and Mary who died in October 2008. Both were founders of the Community Arts Forum in 1993 and were highly respected in the community theatre movement.

A Night at the Silent Movies will be held on Friday 10 September in the Crumlin Star Social Club (the former Forum cinema) followed by music and dancing. Some surprises are in store and it is sure to be a fun evening.

Fancy dress is preferred. There will be prizes for the best gangster and moll.

Admission £6 including ballot. All proceeds will go to Cancer Lifeline.

Tickets available from:
Kate at CAF 028 9024 2910
Cancer Lifeline 028 9035 1999
Marie at Tongue ‘n Cheek 028 9071 5165

27/07/2010
Kerrygold Community Awards - Closing date soon
The Kerrygold Community Awards have been set up to recognise and reward community projects in the UK, where groups of individuals have worked together to achieve something in their community.

The awards are limited to Community Projects. These are defined as projects helping the immediate community and staffed by members of that community. These projects should be non-profit generating and should not be initiated by national registered charities.

Projects should be sustainable and not be focussed on political and/ or religious recruitment and must involve a tangible benefit aimed at inspiring, helping and improving the local community.

There are nine applicable regions including Northern Ireland. A winner will be announced from each region, each of whom will each get a ninth of total Awards fund (with a minimum guaranteed of £1000 each), and one more judges choice will get a similar sum.

There are nine eligible project categories, these include the arts, area regeneration and encouraging community gatherings.

For further information see www.kerrygoldcommunityawards.co.uk

Deadline: Friday 31 July 2010

27/07/2010
Call for Artists - Antrim Borough Council BEAT Programme
Antrim Borough Council are delivering a summer intervention programme in 8 areas across the Borough over the summer. The Be Educated, Be Active, Be Together (BEAT) programme is running from 5 – 9pm (hourly sessions) targeting the older, more difficult to reach 11+ age group.

There is a facilitator who overviews the programme, and additional tutors are invited in to deliver on specialist topics for some sessions.A typical programme runs from Mon-Thursday and ranges from sporting activities, to issues awareness (fire safety / environment / alcohol) to arts activities, for example.

They are interested in getting on board an art tutor who can do one hour sessions – one in each venue until the end of the summer. The times are quite flexible and they would be able to work to suit the tutor in most instances.

For further information contact any of the following staff:
Rhoda Gray – Community Services Manager 028 9446 3113 Ext 1311
Valerie Crozier – Good Relations Officer 028 9446 3113 Ext 1014
Alison Allen – Partnership Manager (Community Safety Partnership) 028 9446 3113 Ext 1362
Andrew Irwin – Partnership Officer 028 9446 3113 Ext 1367

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