Artists, musicians, writers and performers in Keighley are being urged to unite for a new community arts project.

Stage 3 Music Arts and Media aims to develop an artistic community in the town through joint projects and mutual support. Founder members have already unveiled several initiatives that can go ahead on a shoestring. These include multi-media performances, creative 'jam sessions', environmental art and a recording studio. Once the group is established it will apply for cash from sources such as the National Lottery, Bradford council and Keighley's Single Regeneration Budget.

Poet Paul Lowndes has been working for more than three years on the Stage 3 project with Jeff Bennett, the former community worker in Woodhouse and Spring Bank. Mr Bennett has now become a Bradford council development worker so Mr Lowndes is moving ahead with an independent management committee. He is seeking artists working in any field, whether traditional or contemporary, to help ensure Stage 3 is a success. Current members include poets, three-dimensional artists, musicians, entertainers, multi-media technicians and gardeners.

Mr Lowndes says: "There's a need for somewhere for artists of all persuasions and skills to go and work together. With so many different artists there might be occasional clashes or ego, but it will show people there are things happening."

Mr Lowndes believes Stage 3 should develop slowly, concentrating initially on achievable projects, and concentrate on creating original work. The group is already holding creative 'jam sessions' each week to share skills, experience and ideas, and make future plans.

October will see 'Out of the Woodwork', a multi-media event aimed at attracting support from local agencies, voluntary groups and businesses. Media Exchange, an audio-visual recording studio, will be set up at the new KVS Community Shop in North Street.

Keighley Showcase will be a series of performances, events and exhibitions to raise the profiles of local organisations.

Anyone interested in getting involved with Stage 3 can attend its next meeting on Tuesday at 7pm in the Temple Row Centre.

Entertainment, page 29

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