Communities throughout the Mining and Pastoral Region will soon share in the benefits of two new programs to bring dynamic shows and performing artists to regional centres.
Member for the Mining and Pastoral Region Dave Grills MLC said the investment of $1.3 million in the New Work in the House and Artists in the House initiatives would see performances created that were relevant to local audiences, along with exciting artist-in-residence programs.
“I encourage local performing artists to pitch their ideas and apply for funding,” Mr Grills said.
“This program aims to support and create regional jobs in the arts sector, while entertaining and inspiring local residents.
“It is another example of the State Government’s commitment to ensuring country communities have access to as many cultural opportunities as possible.”
This funding has been provided through Royalties for Regions, via the four-year, $24 million Creative Regions program.
“The $1 million New Work in the House program will challenge Western Australian performers and performing arts companies to create work that will engage both regional and metropolitan audiences,” Mr Grills said.
“Though the bottom line is that performances will have to be produced and premiered in country WA, which will help drive job creation and community engagement.”
Nationals WA candidate for Kalgoorlie Tony Crook said the $315,000 Artists in the House program would help fund artist-in-residence programs designed to activate regional venues.
“Families and schools across the Mining and Pastoral Region will benefit because both programs will support strong interaction between performers and local residents,” Mr Crook said.
“The two new programs will dovetail with other Creative Regions initiatives, which support touring shows and improving local venues.”
Applications for stage one of New Work in the House are now open and close on 15 December 2016. The second stage opens in February 2017 and closes at the end of March 2017. Applications for Artists in the House open in February 2017 and close at the end of March 2017.
For more information on the new grants programs, visit: http://www.dca.wa.gov.au/online-grants/online-grants-programs/
For media enquiries contact Dave Grills MLC on (08) 90711 500 or email dave.grills@mp.wa.gov.au
