Should opera houses receive public funds?/Should indie rock venues?

[JohnFKennedy]

Not entirely sure why this was bumped but I believe that arts venues in the UK are funded on a case-by-case basis with consideration given to community needs, their financial viability and their cultural and historical position. Funding is allocated by the Arts Council who receive most of their money from the National Lottery (although I think some does come from taxpayers, not entirely sure of the proportion).

My opinion of the situation is positive as it has opened up a whole wealth of cultural spaces and events to the general public. The permanent collections of all public museums and galleries are free-to-view and have impressive levels of attendance and tickets for performances at places like the National Theatre and the Royal Opera House are generally affordable. The NT do tickets for most shows at £10 (also aided by corporate sponsorship) and the ROH started offering tickets at £5 a couple of years ago which equates to a bit over $9. It's a major contrast to the commercial West End theatres where the cheapest tickets (generally with a restricted view) range from £15 to £20.