Communities throughout the Wagin electorate will share in the benefits of two new programs to bring dynamic shows and performing artists to regional centres.
Member for Wagin Terry Waldron MLA 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 Waldron said.
“This is about supporting and creating 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.”
The 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 Waldron 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 in the regions.”
Nationals WA candidate for Roe Peter Rundle said the $315,000 Artists in the House program would help fund artist-in-residence programs designed to activate regional venues.
“I have no doubt families and schools across the Wagin electorate will benefit because both programs will support strong interaction between performers and local residents,” Mr Rundle 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 Terry Waldron on 9881 1225 or email terry.waldron@mp.wa.gov.au or Peter Rundle on M: 0418 959 810 or E: peter.rundle@nationalswa.com
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