22 November 2013

Audiences and artists in the Cowra district will benefit from more than $28,000 in Federal funding, announced this week by Minister for the Arts George Brandis.

Funding for the theatre project “Collective Joy” has been provided under the Australian Government’s Regional Arts Fund Community Grants Program.

Federal Member for Hume Angus Taylor welcomed the news, saying it was a special opportunity for young regional artists.

“The Collective Joy project will be a production involving the creative development and performance of a new dance theatre work, directed by regional artists Alison Buckley, Alison Plevey and Adam Deusien.

“Young artists will take part in training and development, leading up to local performances in Cowra (and Bathurst) in November next year,” Mr Taylor said.

“This is an example of the Government ensuring the arts and cultural sector is accessible and valued in our regional communities and opportunities are provided for young local talent.

Joint project coordinator from Cowra Alison Buckley said the performance would explore a theme of isolation in rural areas and any young boys and girls over the age of twelve were welcome to audition.

“We’ll be advertising through local media early next year and we’re encouraging anyone who’s keen to come forward and try out.”

The Regional Arts Fund is administered by Regional Arts Australia and its member network of regional arts organisations in states and territories. The full list of funded projects is available at www.regionalarts.com.au