The Hodgman Liberal Government is committed to continuing our strong relationship with China, and I am pleased to announce the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra will play eight concerts in Shanghai, Fuzhou and Nanjing later this year.
The Government will support the tour with a grant of $100 000 towards the cost of travel for the orchestra’s 55 musicians and associated freight expenses.
Earlier this month I had the honour of representing the Tasmanian Liberal Government in China to take part in the celebrations of the 35th anniversary of our sister state relationship with Fujian Province, and the tour will further strengthen our cultural connection and friendship with China.
As part of the tour the Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra will present a joint performance with the Jiangsu Symphony Orchestra in Nanjing on New Year’s Eve and also a special performance in Shanghai.
The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra is in discussions for these concerts to be broadcast across China, expanding the reach of the tour and raising the profile of the orchestra and Tasmania.
The Tasmanian Symphony Orchestra is a much-loved icon in our state and it is a pleasure to help them share their extraordinary musical capacity with our friends in China.
The Government is a strong supporter of the arts and understands the value of cultural exchanges in building on the strong trade, tourism and investment relationship we continue to develop with one of our largest export partners.
The Government is committed to strengthening our relationship with China, and we hope to continue to see positive outcomes for Tasmanians through expanded trade, increased visitation and stronger relationships with our education and cultural sectors.