“Big ideas” for the BBC include the arts

The BBC is planning to make more arts programmes for television and will ensure that the arts don’t “disappear into niche channels” by bringing more landmark arts shows back to BBC One and BBC Two. This announcement by Director General Tony Hall in his first speech since taking on this role earlier this year, reflects his wider desire for more people “to have access to the best live music and arts events around the country”. Other developments will include a new peak-time programme to showcase cultural festivals and performances around the UK, the re-launch of the digital project The Space and a celebration of Shakespeare in 2016. Hall, previously Chief Executive of the Royal Opera House, acknowledged that the plans are ambitious and will need to draw on the best talent and creativity from the BBC, independent producers and the creative industries to make them happen. He wants BBC Music becoming a brand that stands alongside BBC News and BBC Sport, and has plans to develop a new BBC Music Award and a nationwide initiative to inspire school children with classical music. Proposals to celebrate the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death in 2016 include exploring and using the BBC’s archive of television and radio plays, poems and programmes about Shakespeare, as well as scripts, stills and production notes, and making these available to schools across the country.

According to Hall, the BBC is already the world’s best arts programmer – but his ambition is to do more and better. The plans set out depend on funding and BBC Trust approval. Sticking to the frozen license fee until 2017 means the BBC will need to save 16% by the end of that period. They are also planning to save another 4% to invest in the plans which have been announced.