Kala the Arts in Basingstoke gets national status

Kala The Arts (KTA), an arts in education charity based in Basingstoke, has been awarded the National Portfolio Organisation status by the Arts Council England.

KITA will receive funding during 2023-26 period to enable it to contribute towards the range of creative and cultural provision in relation to dance, thereby contributing to Arts Council England’s Creative People and Cultural Communities Outcomes.

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Arts Council England south west area director Phil Gibby said: “We’re delighted to be welcoming Kala The Arts into the 2023-26 National Portfolio.

“The North Hampshire organisation paves the way for South Asian performance art and dance in the south west, and have shown valuable commitment to empowering communities and individuals through classical dance and music.” 

Kala the Art members perform at the amphitheatre (Image: Adam Pegg)

Across the south west, a total of 117 organisations will receive a share of £37m (a year) ensuring that more people in more places can find fantastic, fulfilling art and culture on their doorsteps. 

By funding new organisations in new places, the Arts Council is delivering on the vision set out in its 10-year strategy, Let's Create: that everyone, everywhere, deserves to benefit from public investment in culture and creativity.

Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council leader Simon Bound congratulated KTA and said the borough is “very lucky to have such a diverse range of cultural organisations to represent Basingstoke at a national level”.

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KTA artistic director Sushmita Pati said: “It is an honour for Kala The Arts. It is recognition of the excellent work KTA has done within local communities, and its commitment to bringing South Asian Dance and culture to Basingstoke and North Hampshire and beyond as part of the Government’s Levelling Up agenda, as well as commissioning new and exciting works.

“Key is also to reach to all communities and schools interested in ‘Lets create’ in North Hampshire. We will continue to support the development of inspirational artists from various diverse backgrounds. This funding will also allow us to train the next generation of dancers and musicians, continue to inspire and create.

“We are thrilled and super excited to represent Basingstoke borough nationally as a culturally diverse organisation.

The centre is also celebrating its 25th anniversary next year with a set of events planned. Follow its Facebook page or visit kalathearts.co.uk for more information.