Govt approves new draft on arts

TIRANA, August 16 – Government approved last weekend a new draft law on arts and culture covering all kinds of arts including books and visual arts.
The draft will make possible the establishment of the National Theatre of Comedy and the National Circus merging previously inefficient institutions.
The need to change the performing arts law came after shortcomings in the implementation of the current law and the degradation of some institutions after the early 90s which operated based on a law dating back to 1993, said the culture ministry earlier in a statement.
The new law will also offer financial support to district theatres operating for more than 50 years which are expected to receive 30 percent of the municipalities’ cultural grants.
Private theatrical and philharmonic companies which regularly organize events will also be supported with state funds.
A board composed of high and middle level officials will be established to draft policies and implement commemorating events, traditional festivals and competitions.
The draft is expected to be approved next September in the new parliamentary season.