Turn local performances into national events

At the moment, the BBC‘s representation of performing arts doesn’t properly reflect its diversity. While Glastonbury and the Proms dominate output every summer, and Radio 3 and BBC4 strike up partnerships with elite institutions such as the Royal Opera House, it’s rare to see local music and arts organisations getting a look in. Given such actors are the lifeblood of the UK’s creativity thats a real shame.

In London, smaller music and arts venues are under constant threat from developers who see more value in luxury flats than performances that thrill and inspire. While the Mayor of London – and borough councils – can help protect certain buildings with planning rules, support from our national broadcaster would help promote the work and vitality of the musicians and artists themselves.

So my idea is this: I’d like to see committed BBC teams working with and broadcasting from local music venues and arts organisations. That would be a national process and would include pubs, cabarets, basement clubs and smaller theatres such as the Camden People’s Theatre. Let’s get small scale arts back on the screen again – I’m sure Lord Reith would approve!

Sian Berry (@SianBerry) is the Green Party candidate for London mayor in 2016.

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