The award, which comes from Arts Council England, South East, will help finance a two-week international programme of physical theatre, dance, performance art, art installations, music and sound installations, promenade concerts and events across the city – many of which will be free. CLICK HERE for the latest information on the International Festival

Sally Abbott, Director of Arts at Arts Council England, South East, says: ‘Our research shows that not only are the arts are an important part of people’s quality of life but they are an important economic asset.

‘This funding award recognises Milton Keynes’ development as an important south east city while helping to further define it as a vibrant hub for arts and culture.’

The idea for the festival was developed by Monica Ferguson, Chief Executive of The Stables; Anthony Spira, Director, and Katherine Sorenson, Head of Marketing, from the Milton Keynes Gallery; and Elizabeth Adlington, Chief Executive of the Milton Keynes Theatre who wanted to unite the city’s arts organisations under a common goal.

The festival is set to be piloted in July 2010 and will be led by The Stables with  Monica Ferguson acting as Festival Director.

Monica explains: ‘Milton Keynes is one of the fastest growing cities in the UK and we are thrilled that the Arts Council has decided to support the development of the city’s cultural infrastructure in this way.’

‘Our vision is for a biennial festival of international arts that raises the artistic adventure of Milton Keynes, surprising its residents and visitors and providing a creative springboard for future artistic engagement.’