MORE creative events and festivals are set to light up regional cities and small towns across Victoria.
Minister for Creative Industries Steve Dimopoulos announced last week applications are now open for the latest round of grants through the state government’s Small Regional Presenters Program, boosting local jobs, tourism and supporting local and visiting performers showcase their talent to new audiences in 2024.
With grants of up to $15,000, the program supports community groups and councils to bring single live shows, a series of events or an annual program in their local community. It also supports local presenters to bring experienced industry professionals to their regions for mentorships and workshops, helping build local skills and develop strategies to grow their audiences.
Mr Dimopoulos said the Small Regional Presenters program had “a mighty impact” for small towns and regional communities, bringing a range of high-quality performances and events to local audiences.
“These grants do more than just bring shows to town, they back local venues and help build the skills and capacity of community presenters enabling them to grow their programs and build their audiences of the future,” he said.
In 2022, Yarram’s The Gumboot Collection received a grant to present a panel of Storytellers at the Yarram Storyfest.
From supporting comedy and cabaret events in Maldon, folk music gigs in Creswick, a shadow puppetry play for children and families in King Valley, and a workshop on the power of technology in storytelling in Castlemaine – last year’s program brought a diverse range of performances to local audiences of all ages.
In 2021, South Gippsland’s Fabelo Incorporated received a grant that supported classical ensemble performances (pictured) at the Wonthaggi Union Community Arts Centre and Sandy Point Community Centre.
Also that year, Stratford Courthouse Theatre Inc was given a grant to present a year-long, community-focused program of professional performances and diverse skills-exchange opportunities at Stratford Courthouse Theatre.
The Dog Theatre Inc were given an opportunity through a grant to present physical theatre piece shows and improvisation workshops by Born In A Taxi Physical Theatre Company at Iceworks Studio in Lakes Entrance and Bruthen Mechanics Hall as part of the East Gippsland Winter Festival 2022.
Regional Arts Victoria chief executive Jo Porter said: “From funny stories to serious music, small presenters bring performances into the hearts of Victoria’s regional communities.”
“If you know your community and what they’d like to see in your local venue, we’re looking forward to working with you to get your ideas on stage.”
Applicants must be members of Regional Arts Victoria or local government authorities that do not receive organisational or multi-year funding through Creative Victoria.
Small Regional Presenters is part of the government’s Creative State 2025 strategy and is delivered by Regional Arts Victoria, the state’s peak body for creatives and creative organisations in the regions.
Applications open Wednesday, September 13 and close on Monday, October 30.
To apply, visit rav.net.au
Fabelo Incorporated’s grants supported classical ensemble performances. Photo: Yianni Banikos
