ALT Working Class Artist Group welcome ACE’s Let’s Create strategy to improve access across the country based on consultation, audience insight and data. We do not believe an ‘opera strategy’ is essential, nor would benefit the working class workforce, audiences or participants, and an absence of one does not effect the UK’s cultural standing in the world. We are in solidarity with the working class workforce of ENO. However, the executive team and board of ENO, Glyndebourne, Opera North, the English National Opera, English Touring Opera and Welsh National Opera are exaggerating the importance of what is often an impenetrable, elitist and niche art form where individuals are grossly paid. Stop playing these ridiculous games and start reflecting the breadth of cultures across England. Failing that, we’re sure you’ve got some rich Tory benefactors who could put their hand in their own pocket for a change.