The Tasmanian Government is a strong supporter of our cultural and creative industries and is delivering stimulus support and recovery initiatives for the sector during these uncertain times.
Through our recently announced Live Performance Reactivation Program, I am pleased to announce today the funding of $1,001,298 to support 12 local productions.
As part of our COVID-19 response to rebuild confidence and momentum within the industry, this Program is designed to support the delivery of new larger-scale professional live performance productions in Tasmania.
Through this funding, 12 organisations and artists will present a total of 205 performances around the State to a projected audience of more than 37,300 people, engaging 822 Tasmanian artists, arts workers, and technical staff.
Among the successful projects is Blue Cow Theatre, which has been awarded $140,155 to present 14 performances of Shakespeare’s A Winter’s Tale at the Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery.
Directed by Robert Jarman, the production will feature 10 of Tasmania’s best professional actors including Scott Farrow, Jane Longhurst, and Mel King, with music composed and performed by Rachel Meyers and Dave McNamara.
Additionally, Encore Theatre Company has been awarded $169,950 to present the 2021 season of MAMMA MIA at the Princess Theatre in Launceston.
The show was originally scheduled to debut in March 2020 but was unfortunately cancelled four days before opening when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. Encore hopes the show will reconnect audiences and rebuild community spirit, well-being, and cohesion.
Second Echo Ensemble, an integrated ensemble of diverse artists who live with a range of abilities, has also been awarded $134,466 for a state-wide tour of contemporary performance work Bending the WIND directed by Charlie Smith.
The company has created 13 major works toured in Australia and internationally, and is a leading creative force in the development of a narrative that speaks to the rich diversity of Tasmania.
The delivery of this funding is yet another example of our commitment to providing sustainable support to the cultural and creative sector so it can further recover from the impacts of COVID-19 and continue to thrive into the future.
For a full list of funding results, click here.