Arts Category

Our general guidelines and exclusions apply to all 5 categories. Please study them carefully. Please also look at the list of current beneficiaries as a guide. What follows is a brief explanation of the main focus of our current grant-making in each category and of the themes we particularly favour. Such is the competition for funds that if your work does not match our themes it is unlikely to be funded.

Arts, the third largest category,reflects Sir John Ellerman’s passion for opera and theatre. In 2007/08, a total of 42 charities received £1.05million between them.

Main Focus

At present the focus of our funding is directed towards the following:

• Music and opera
• Museums and galleries
• Theatre and dance


Particular Themes and Concerns

The Foundation is particularly interested in charities which can demonstrate all or most of the following:

• Excellence within the field
• Commitment to attracting new audiences and wider public access
• Youth participation and motivation
• Originality and creativity in design, production and/or presentation
• Lasting impact

Generally the Foundation does not support educational projects, festivals, productions or tours. We do exceptionally on occasions support cathedral restoration.

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