Prestigious arts market invites six Queensland performers

Six high-profile Queensland acts have been invited to perform before the big names of international touring and production at the Australian Performing Arts Market (APAM) in Adelaide next year.

Arts Minister Rod Welford welcomed the inclusion of the six companies and artists in the prestigious APAM spotlight and searchlight programs.

“This is the highest number of Queensland representatives in the market’s eight-year history,” Mr Welford said.

“APAM is the largest performing arts showcase in the southern hemisphere, attracting more than 400 delegates from 25 countries and featuring 25 Australian arts companies, agents, government bodies and businesses.

“Invitations to perform can open many doors and are obviously highly sought after.”

The Queensland artists invited to perform are – Brisbane dancer and choreographer Clare Dyson; Splintergroup, which includes Dancenorth’s artistic director Gavin Webber; musician and instrument maker Linsey Pollak; award-winning physical theatre company Circa; multi-media focused Arts Asia Pacific; and Townsville’s Mabo Dance Company.

Mr Welford said the high number of selected representatives from the Smart State demonstrated the strength and export potential of Queensland’s performing arts sector.

“The six artists and companies performing at APAM represent a strong cross section of the state’s performing arts scene, comprising contemporary dance, circus-theatre, experimental music, multi-media and Indigenous dance,” he said.

“In the past, Queensland artists have secured tours and festival performances throughout Europe, the United Kingdom, United States, Taiwan, New Zealand and Australia as a direct result of being seen at the performing arts market.”

APAM will be held from 25 – 29 February 2008, at the Adelaide Festival Centre and precedes the Adelaide Bank Festival of Arts.

The State Government has a strong history of presenting Queensland artists at APAM, hosting a display booth and a Queensland reception.

Arts Queensland also provides funding and marketing support for artists and companies taking part in the performing arts market.

Media contact: Emma Clarey or Marnie Stitz on 3237 1000