Regional audiences across NSW are set to be entertained with 23 presenting arts and cultural organisations and groups receiving a record $1.9 million in regional touring funding through the NSW Government’s 2021 Regional Arts Touring round.
Minister for the Arts Don Harwin said the increased funding for 2021 will improve access to performances for audiences across NSW, increase employment and provide an economic boost for local artists and economies at a time it is needed most.
“The NSW Government is providing record support for regional touring this year. This funding will allow 23 high calibre NSW-made performances to tour the State, creating opportunities for regional audiences to participate in a diverse range of arts and cultural offerings,” said Mr Harwin.
“We are investing in our talented arts and cultural organisations and making their touring ambitions a reality, and improving access to high quality and diverse experiences for regional audiences.”
“This year’s funding round is also providing a much-needed economic boost to our artists and regional economies. I’m delighted that over 760 arts and cultural workers are set to benefit from these activities, which are expected to reach an estimated audience of over 176,000 people across NSW.”
Funded recipients include Sydney Festival sell-out Sunshine Super Girl: the Evonne Goolagong Story from Performing Lines Ltd; Black Cockatoo from Ensemble Theatre; the Australian Hayden Ensemble for its Regional Intensity Project of classical performances and masterclasses; and Pinchgut Opera for its first ever regional tour bringing Monteverdi’s Vespers to regional audiences. A full list of recipients is available here!
This round will see works tour all corners of NSW with performances reaching audiences across the State from Lismore to Nowra and Muswellbrook to Dubbo. The funding will also support regional arts and cultural organisations to reach new audiences in Sydney and Western Sydney.
This year’s record Regional Arts Touring round was bolstered through additional funding from the NSW Government’s Rescue and Restart package to support the recovery of the arts and cultural sector. For more information, visit: www.create.nsw.gov.au for details.
Image: Sunshine Super Girl: the Evonne Goolagong Story – photo by Yaya Stempler