The Arts Council of Ireland has released the results of Auditoria - a review of planning, programming and provision for performing arts venues in Ireland held in 2001 and 2002. The review was commissioned by the Arts Council of Ireland and the Arts Council of Northern Ireland (ACNI), to inform the implementation of the Arts Council’s third Arts Plan, 2002-2006 and the Arts Strategy Programme of ACNI. Written by Phelim Donlon and edited by Medb Ruane, Auditoria provides detailed analysis of the operations and programming of 54 venues and arts centres - concentrating on locations in receipt of funding from the Arts Council and ACNI during that specific time period. The report takes in to account, the probable effect which an enlarged network of venues would have in terms of access for audiences to a programme of high quality drama, dance and opera productions, as well as the likely increased levels of funding which would be sought from the councils by the management of that increased circuit. ‘It is clear that certain findings - for example in the area of capital funding, audience development, repertoire, touring and local partnerships - remain pertinent to the debate,’ said Mary Cloake, Director of Arts Council Ireland. ‘In this context, three issues arise; the availability of touring productions, the financial stability of our now enlarged venues network and the long-term sustainability of these venues. In the coming months, this document will provide the Arts Council with a valuable basis for informed debate and discussion as we enter a new phase of planning for the performing arts throughout the country,’ she added. Across the next few months the Council will also release an appendix to the report containing supporting analysis of the programming of production companies, theatres and arts centres with performing arts facilities in Ireland. To download the Auditoria report as a PDF, CLICK HERE For more information, visit www.artscouncil.ie