A PERFORMING arts company for young people has received a £25,000 government grant.

Swindon-based Revolution Performing Arts is one of more than 2,700 facilities to benefit from the latest round of awards from the £1.57 billion Culture Recovery Fund.

It has facilities in North Wiltshire, Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire.

Founder Fi Da Silva Adams said: “We thrilled to get this support and humbled too.

“For hundreds of children and young people, our classes in singing, dancing and acting have had a positive impact on mental health, as well as confidence and sheer joy during these difficult few months. 

“At a time when we are unable to generate income in the ‘usual’ way, this is a lifeline for our organisation. This allows us to reopen our face to face, group classes in a safe and secure manner.”

More than £800 million in grants and loans has already been awarded to support almost 3,800 cinemas, performance venues, museums, heritage sites and other cultural organisations dealing with the immediate challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.

Culture secretary Oliver Dowden said: “Our Culture Recovery Fund has already helped thousands of culture and heritage organisations across the country survive the biggest crisis they’ve ever faced.

“Now we’re staying by their side as they prepare to welcome the public back through their doors . helping our cultural gems plan for reopening and thrive in better times ahead.”

Arts Council England chair Sir Nicholas Serota said: “Investing in a thriving cultural sector at the heart of communities is a vital part of helping the whole country to recover from the pandemic. 

“These grants will help to reopen theatres, concert halls, and museums and will give artists and companies the opportunity to begin making new work.

“We are grateful to the government for this support and for recognising the paramount importance of culture to our sense of belonging and identity as individuals and as a society.”

The funding has been awarded by Arts Council England, Historic England, the National Lottery Heritage Fund and the British Film Institute.