My own authority's licensing policy (East Cheshire) includes this:

"The Licensing Authority recognises that as part of implementing local authority cultural strategies, proper account should be taken of the need to encourage and promote a broad range of entertainment, particularly live music, dancing and theatre, including the performance of a wide range of traditional and historic plays for the wider cultural benefit of communities. The Licensing Authority recognises the need for a balance the cultural needs with the necessity of promoting the licensing objectives."

Interesting to see the reference to traditional plays. There is a strong tradition around here of mummers' plays, pace egging, souling, etc.

However it is perhaps significant that despite the Government's insistence that the Act was intended to encourage live music and other cultural activities, this is not one of the the Licensing Objectives set out in the Act, which are:

· The prevention of crime and disorder;
· Public safety;
· The prevention of public nuisance; and
· The protection of children from harm

All very laudable in their way, but all very negative rather than positive in their approach.