An online arts venues and resources guide has been launched by the English Regional Arts Boards in collaboration with the Arts Council of England.
The guide aims to bring together comprehensive information about the people, places and venues that support the touring of arts. Initially the database will focus on performing arts, promoters and festivals, but it will ultimately include information about touring the visual arts.
Information about venues and spaces that accept tours of performance work, is being gathered now, and the database will also have lists of promoters that create tours or can assist touring companies. It will include details such as artistic policy, spaces and stages available, and facilities for companies and patrons. The information is specifically targeted to meet the needs of touring companies, producers and potential co-producers.
The test site can be visited at w: http://www.arts-venues.co.uk. Arts organisations wishing to be listed can download a form at w: http://www.arts.org.uk