Queensland Government backs more than 750 new and exceptional arts experiences

The Queensland Government has announced the award of almost $1.2 million to support more than 750 new arts tours and theatre experiences.

Expected to reach more than 80,000 Queenslanders, the injection into the Touring Queensland Fund aims to drives art and cultural opportunities right across Queensland from Cairns to Warwick and out to Bedourie and Birdsville.

The funding has supported nine artists and companies, with more than 750 performances and exhibitions funded through this grant round.

Successful recipients include whip-cracking comedy duo The CrackUp Sisters, who will receive $147,146 to share their outback stories at a range of events from Augathella and Yeppoon to Boulia and Birdsville.

THAT Production Company will receive $100,000 to tour its acclaimed comedy, Every Brilliant Thing to communities including Longreach, Winton, Mount Isa, Hughenden, Blackall and the Shire of Bulloo.

Performing arts and events producer Red Chair will receive multi-year funding of almost $300,000 to grow its regional touring circuit.

The funding allows Red Chair to present 16 independent Queensland music acts to 11 communities in Gladstone, Agnes Water, Bribie Island, the Sunshine Coast, as well as Brisbane, Redlands and Somerset regions.

Other funded projects include cabaret shows, in-school touring programs and contemporary and classical musical experiences.

Queensland Minister for Education and the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek advised “we’re committed to supporting our vibrant art, live music and comedy shows, so Queenslanders have access to entertainment, no matter where they live.

“The Touring Queensland Fund helps our state’s talented artists and art organisations take their shows on the road, providing more for Queenslanders to see and do, while supporting local performers.

“This investment is a shot-in-the-arm for our talented arts workers, and it has a fantastic flow on effect for our regional economies.”

Angie Dunbavan from Red Chair said the multi-year funding provides an opportunity to grow their regional touring circuit to present 16 independent Queensland music productions over two years.

“With 102 performances and 34 engagement activities - including workshops, local artist showcases and mentoring opportunities - more than 70 diverse Queensland musicians will perform to an audience of more than 10 thousand.

“The project will offer Queensland audiences a regular concert program, activate regional venues and provide significant employment and career development opportunities for Queensland artists.”

Click here to view the full list of Touring Queensland Fund round five recipients via the Arts Queensland website..

Image: The CrackUp Sisters.