Hunter Opera among Lake Macquarie events to share in $100,000

Round two of Lake Macquarie City Council’s Events and Festivals Funding Program will see almost $100,000 distributed to local community groups.

Among the vast and varied recipients is Hunter Opera, with $12,000 going toward the Lake Macquarie Philharmonic Orchestra’s ‘An American Dream’ program, heading to Warners Bay Theatre next October.

The musical extravaganza will feature young virtuoso Zachary Donoghoe performing the clarinet concerto and noted Hunter jazz singer Heather Price.

Hunter Opera founder Mercia Buck said the grant would help bring the spectacular to life and enthused “this is an exciting opportunity to unleash the visceral talent of the orchestra and showcase some incredible local performers.

Other artistic ventures, including the Dobell Festival of Arts and Craft and a ‘Textile Taster’ workshop – where participants can get hands on with felting, fabric printing and Japanese textile techniques – were also approved for funding.

ANZAC Day functions and sports events were other prominent round two recipients, with the Youth ‘Slash and Bash’ surf and skate competition, 2023 Open Skiff Championships and the Hunter Open Judo Championships among those backed by the program.

Lake Macquarie Mayor Kay Fraser said the chosen events celebrated the city’s culture adding “we prioritise engaging, entertaining and surprising events and festivals that attract visitors and contribute to diverse and economically strong communities.”

A total of 33 groups received a share of $98,693 in funding through this round of the program.

Dates and application details for the 2023 Events and Festivals Funding Program are available at lakemac.com.au.

Image: hunter jazz talent heather price will feature in an American dream with the lake macquarie philharmonic orchestra Credit:Alex Jack photography