The Andrews Labor Government is supporting independent performing arts producers to build their careers and practices with flow-on benefits for artists and the wider Victorian performing arts sector. Part of the Victorian Independent Producers Initiative, the latest round of Unlocking Capacity grants support producers to build their skills and networks while developing a sustainable practice.
“Producers play a crucial role, bringing artistic visions to life while providing artists with essential management and mentoring as they share their shows with audiences.” Minister for Creative Industries Danny Pearson commented “These grants are about supporting Victoria’s established producers to take the next step, explore new ways of working and deliver their artists into the best opportunities our creative state has to offer.”
Minister Pearson explained that dedicated allocations for First Peoples, deaf and disabled producers as well as a general stream ensure producers from diverse backgrounds are supported across the program. The Minister said that seven Victorian producers have been awarded multi-year grants of up to $35,000 per annum for up to three years, which will grow businesses and better support the artists who rely on them. Minister Pearson went on to add that producers play a critical, wide-ranging and often unsung role in the performing arts – spanning finance, marketing, legal and more – with their work behind the scenes helping bring artistic visions to life and works to audiences.
Minister Pearson said that the latest recipients include Dylan Singh who will develop a dedicated space for First Peoples artists to show their work, Lana Nguyen who will undertake mentorships and research ways to better support creatives, and Alison Halit who is supporting a portfolio of artists, focusing on philanthropy and mentoring. The Minister pointed out that previous recipients have included Kath Papas, who engaged associate producers and increased her support for contemporary dance and theatre artists, and Malia Walsh whose company Circus Trick Tease relaunched three productions to tour regional areas.
The Minister explained that the Unlocking Capacity program has also offered mentorships, networking opportunities and other professional development for independent producers, further supporting the development of Victorian talent in this crucial role. Funded by the Labor Government, the Victorian Independent Producers Initiative has been delivered by Theatre Network Australia in partnership with Creative Victoria.
