Playing Australia set to present arts performances to audiences in 81 locations

Creative Australia will invest over $1.7 million in 10 performing arts tours, set to reach over 81 unique locations and cities nationwide.

The investments through the Playing Australia initiative will bring high quality performances to audiences right across the country, particularly young people and their families in regional and rural Australia. 

Commenting on what the investment will deliver, Creative Australia Director of Arts Investment, Alice Nash stated “all Australians, no matter where they live, should have the opportunity to immerse themselves in exceptional arts experiences.

“This investment through Playing Australia makes it possible for more Australians, particularly young people and their families, to experience world-class performances in their hometowns.”

Highlights include: 

Performing Lines’ national tour of Glass Child by the Farm to locations across Western Australia, Queensland and Victoria. This compelling performance work depicts the story of the sibling relationship between a young man with Down Syndrome, and his sister.

Performing Lines’ national tour of M’ap Boule: This dramatic debut work from Nancy Denis tells the story of a child born of Haitian immigrants growing up in Australia, blending lyrical storytelling and powerful songwriting.

Nicholas Clark Management’s tour of IMAGINE LIVE. This performance combining live-action and animation, based on Alison Lester’s bestselling children’s book, will reach 45 venues across Australia. 

Artback NT’s - Ripple Effect Band MAYAWA tour - touring the debut album from Arnhem Land’s all-women rock band Ripple Effect.

Terrapin Puppet Theatre’s 2025 National Regional Tour of The Paper Escaper: a beautiful and bright puppetry work that tells a story of determination, friendship and the power of following your own path. The tour to 13 venues is expected to reach 10,000 young audience members.

Image: Performing Lines' Glass Child by the Farm. Credit: Kate Holmes.