Syndeac criticizes funding cuts

The National Syndicate of Artistic and Cultural Enterprises (Syndeac) has criticized recent funding decisions that threaten the National Stage Le Tangram in Évreux, pointing to a reduction in public subsidies and the non-renewal of its director’s mandate.

Funding reduction details

Following a board meeting on October 9, the Public Cultural Cooperation Establishment (EPCC) was informed of an 11 percent reduction in public financial support, totaling 354,300 euros. This cut represents a 40 percent decrease in the artistic budget for the year 2027.

Director's mandate not renewed

The non-renewal of the director Valérie Baran’s appointment has added to the concerns of the professional union, which highlights that the organization’s performance has been widely praised by its partners.

Le Tangram’s structure and activities

Established in 2016, Le Tangram includes the National Stage of Évreux, the Kubb (a contemporary music venue), and Le Cadran (Congress Palace). These venues typically host around 330 events annually and attracted nearly 70,000 spectators in the last season.

Impact of funding cuts

The reduction in resources is expected to cancel the multidisciplinary festival Les AnthropoScènes starting in 2027, which had nearly 11,000 attendees in spring 2026. The National Stage and the Kubb will also be closed to the public from June 2027 to January 2028.

Economic and social consequences

The organization warns of economic and social impacts in the local area, including the potential loss of jobs for over 150 theatrical freelancers and temporary workers, as well as estimated losses for local businesses, including 430 overnight stays and 900 meals.

Call to public officials

Denouncing a "collective disengagement" by public authorities, Syndeac has directed its concerns to key officials, including the Minister of Culture Catherine Pégard and the mayor of Évreux Guy Lefrand, urging them to reconsider the situation during a board meeting on December 4.

Planned support rally

A support rally titled "Defend the future of the Tangram and the cultural offering of the territory" is scheduled to take place in Évreux on November 19.