Backing Small Shows That Have A Big Impact On Regional Towns

Regional community groups are taking top music and theatre performances across Victoria with support from the Andrews Labor Government.

Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley today announced $17,000 in support for four regional arts councils and groups through the latest round of the Labor Government’s Small Regional Presenters program.

Growing Regional Arts In Nathalia (G.R.A.I.N), which operates from a converted grain store shopfront, will host diverse music concerts covering classical, Celtic and jazz.

The Warragul Heritage Preservation Society’s grant will support a performance by renowned classical group the Flinders Quartet.

Moira Arts and Culture Inc received a grant to host a production of ‘The Exotic Lives of Lola Montez’. Created by award-winning cabaret and theatre group Finucane & Smith, it tells the true story of an Irish showgirl who toured Victoria’s goldfields in the 1800s.

Lyrebird Arts Council also received support to bring two Melbourne-based bands – The Meltdown and The Teskey Brothers – to the region to headline ‘The Meeniyan Dance’, a community event held in early August to celebrate the 125^th anniversary of the Meeniyan Town Hall.

The Small Regional Presenters program supports venues and groups in regional Victoria to present shows for their local community. It complements a suite of touring support already offered through the Labor Government’s $20 million regional arts package.

Grants of between $1,000 and $15,000 are now available to support a single show or event, a series of shows or an annual program. Community presenters seeking to apply must be members of Regional Arts Victoria.

The next round of the Small Regional Presenters program will support shows taking place from 1 February 2018 onwards. Applications close at 5:00pm on 15 November.

To find out more about the program or the latest recipients, visit creative.vic.gov.au

Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley

“The Small Regional Presenters program has a big impact in regional Victoria, bringing exciting performances to towns across the state.”

“These grants build the skills of regional arts groups by supporting them to attract and host exciting shows and events.”

“From a theatre performance in a sports club, to gigs in a former grain store – we are proud to support our small regional presenters with grants that will make a big difference to their community arts scene.”