THE Pyramid Centre has been shortlisted for a prestigious National Lottery Award and is asking for support to be voted as the UK’s favourite arts project.
The arts centre fought off competition from 900 other good causes to make it through to the final seven in the Best Arts Project category, and is the only project in the North West to be shortlisted.
National Lottery funding radically transformed two disused buildings into Pyramid, a cutting edge centre for the arts which opened in 2002. It was the catalyst in creating Warrington’s Cultural Quarter and for the physical regeneration of the town centre. With seven different performance spaces, it hosts the very best in comedy, dance, drama and music and encourages anyone of any ability to become involved with the arts.
Last year, Pyramid celebrated 10 years of being Warrington’s dedicated venue for the arts, something which wouldn’t have been possible without £2.4 million of National Lottery funding. Pyramid is at the heart of the Warrington community and is key for the many people who engage in weekly or daily classes. 
Jan Souness, (pictured) Managing Director of Culture Warrington said: “We are absolutely delighted to have been shortlisted for this prestigious award. Pyramid is one of three venues managed by Culture Warrington that offers accessible arts opportunities for the entire community. Without National Lottery funding, Pyramid would not be here, and this nomination is also a credit to Warrington Borough Council and all those who had the vision to create the Pyramid and support the activities and events and to the exceptional team that work hard to offer something for everyone at this unique venue.”
The participation programme encourages everyone to become involved with a variety of workshops for all range of abilities. From ballroom dance and youth drama to choirs and life drawing, as well as being home to WA Creative studios where like-minded creative industries professionals share ideas and work space, Pyramid has something for everyone.
Many people regularly benefit from the facilities on offer at Pyramid. Classic singer Colin Yates has performed all over the world with the Liverpool Philharmonic Choir but about five-years-ago he suffered a breakdown which meant he didn’t have the confidence to sing anymore. But volunteering at Creative Remedies arts groups has enabled Colin to build his confidence and get back on stage. Edna Shickell who is a full time carer to her husband says that over 50s dance and performance group Grace is her ‘lifeline’. Taking part in weekly classes has enhanced her social life.
The National Lottery Awards are an annual search to find the UK’s favourite Lottery-funded projects, and they recognise and celebrate the difference that Lottery-funded projects make to communities across the UK. The winning project will receive national recognition on a BBC One TV show in early September and, in addition to the Lottery funding they have already received, will receive a £2,000 cash prize to spend on their project.
Voting for the finals starts at 9am on Wednesday 19 June and ends at midnight on Wednesday 24 July. To register your vote for Culture Warrington’s Pyramid call 0844 836 9672 or log on to www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/awards.
Pyramid shortlisted for prestigious award
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Gary Skentelbery
Experienced journalist for more than 40 years. Managing Director of magazine publishing group with three in-house titles and on-line daily newspaper for Warrington. Experienced writer, photographer, PR consultant and media expert having written for local, regional and national newspapers. Specialties: PR, media, social networking, photographer, networking, advertising, sales, media crisis management. Chair of Warrington Healthwatch Director Warrington Chamber of Commerce Patron Tim Parry Johnathan Ball Foundation for Peace. Trustee Warrington Disability Partnership. Former Chairman of Warrington Town FC.
