Community members and visitors in some of Victoria’s smallest towns will be treated to world class performances this year thanks to the Andrews Labor Government’s Small Regional Presenters program. Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley today announced almost $140,000 in grants to help 19 regional community arts groups and councils present theatre shows, comedy, music and children’s performances in community venues right across the state.
“Our creative state extends far beyond our major cities – and we’re proud to be bringing some of Victoria’s best cultural experiences to small towns in the regions.” Minister Foley commented “Small Regional Presenters is about taking fantastic shows to every corner of our state, but also about supporting jobs and businesses in regional Victoria who ensure that creativity thrives in their communities.”
Minister Foley explained that the program’s eighth round will see singer-songwriter Kutcha Edwards performing in Bruthen and Myrrhee, Geelong performers The Space Company taking the stage in Balmoral and Yea, and acclaimed musical theatre production The Sapphires stopping in at Quambatook Memorial Hall as part of a national tour.

The Minister pointed out that as well as performances, some recipients will also create opportunities for community members to participate in workshops to learn from the visiting artists – or perform alongside them. Unlike a traditional touring model which provides support to artists, the program hands the reins to local groups to choose shows they know will resonate with local audiences.
Minister Foley said that since the Small Regional Presenters program was introduced in 2016, more than 300 shows have been supported to travel to 65 towns across the state. The program provides grants of between $1,000 and $15,000 to groups that present professional performing arts events in their communities, including not-for-profit groups and societies, venues and local councils. The next round of Small Regional Presenters grants will support shows taking place from 1 July 2019 onwards. For More Information