In addition to the federal support measures for all sectors announced on Wednesday, State Secretary for Art and Culture Andrea Mayer (Greens) announced a pact of measures for a “new start to culture”, with which the culture sector wants to “accompany it on its way back to normality”. The package comprises 20 million euros. “The previous aid measures ensure survival, this package is intended to provide additional impetus for the restart,” said Mayer.
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The package is divided into three large sub-packages: You want to enable appearances, support investments and motivate the audience. Under the title “Making Art and Culture possible”, 2 million euros will flow into the funding program “From Stage to Video”, whereby video adaptations and streaming of stage productions in the field of performing arts and music will be promoted. Additional costs for cultural events in the outdoor area are also funded with 2 million euros under the title “Culture in the open”. There is just as much for “innovative artistic creation”, addressed here are “innovative artistic forms of expression and genres that do not fit into the previous funding schemes”. Existing potential can be developed here. “We have to be agile in funding practice in order to support the positive developments in the best possible way,” said Mayer.
In the second part of the package, investments – for example in modernization and renovation or new ventilation systems – are supported with a total of 10 million euros. “We want the rooms to be presented in an inviting and attractive way,” says Mayer. Four million euros are also reserved for a “subscription support program” through which subscriptions and other serial ticket offers are supported so that they can be offered to the public at a lower price. The aim is to motivate the audience and bind them to the houses.
“It is still very difficult for the arts and culture,” said Mayer. She referred to an evaluation of the infection process on Monday. “Then we will see whether it is possible to provide a perspective for further opening steps.” Until then, they want to provide help through the new measures. “So this phase will still have to be survived,” said Mayer, who pointed out that the extended cancellation bonus would also benefit many.
The measures for freelance artists are also being refined again. The SVS “lockdown bonus” will be extended for March and April, with 1,000 euros in special payments. In general, all other measures for freelancers are extended until the end of June. “We will also manage the last stretch of the road well,” said Mayer, who concluded with an optimistic view.
