CLAUDIA WRIGHT

May 1, 2014

The State Government today promised $1million for a new ‘Boost’ program which will give West Australian regional communities the opportunity to see more touring arts performances.

The program, administered by the Department of Culture and the Arts, will allow small to medium performing arts groups to apply for grants to develop shows for regional areas.

Culture and the Arts Minister John Day said Boost would increase the number and diversity of touring shows including theatre, dance, music and circus performances in regional areas for the next three years.

Buzz Dance Theatre general manager Pippa Davis said the grant would not only be beneficial for small companies in Perth, but anyone in regional areas interested in the arts.

“I worked in the Karratha theatre for eight years and there are a lot of enthusiastic people, but they don’t have the necessary skills or resources to put on a show,” she said.

“People all over regional WA will now be able to see shows they wouldn’t usually have access to.”

Training and skills workshop programs will be offered to venue managers, arts organisations and volunteers in regional areas to help improve their skills and confidence in hosting performances at local venues.

“All arts groups will be encouraged to work with the local presenters to develop ways of engaging with the community,” Mr Day said.

Regional Development Minister Terry Waldron said the Boost initiative was one fully supported under the Royalties for Regions program.

“Major performing arts companies often visit regional areas, but smaller companies are not always given this opportunity,” he said.

“This funding will give regional communities greater options to see shows that best suit their needs.”

Regional touring grants open May 15 and close July 25.