Do claims of underfunding and neglect merely reflect an outdated understanding of culture, or are the arts in their broadest sense under real threat in the current cultural climate? Patrick Wright discusses the controversial role of state subsidy and patronage with John Tusa , managing director of London's Barbican Centre, whose new book
Art Matters argues that the arts need enlightened stewardship. Plus first-night news from Wallace Shawn 's comedy Aunt Dan and Lemon, which stars Miranda Richardson and Glenne Headly. And another specially commissioned letter to the new
Scottish Parliament reflecting a writer's cultural concerns.
Producer Zahid Warley