Buzz surrounds Queensland's performing artists

Seven of Queensland’s leading performance artists and companies will be in the spotlight in Adelaide this week at the prestigious Australian Performing Arts Market (APAM).

Arts Minister Rod Welford said APAM, from 25–29 February, was the largest performing arts trade fair in the southern hemisphere.

“This is the largest delegation of Queensland artists to take part in APAM in the event’s eight-year history,” Mr Welford said.

“The inclusion of the seven Queensland companies and artists in APAM’s ‘spotlight and searchlight’ programs is a significant achievement.

“The five-day trade fair attracts more than 550 national and international festival and theatre directors, venue managers, agents, company directors, producers, performing artists, promoters and government officials.

“APAM will boost the national profile of Queensland’s performing artists and introduce overseas audiences to our dynamic, physical and inspiring performances, which have won critical acclaim.”

The Queensland artists and companies attending APAM are – choreographer Clare Dyson; multi-media focused Arts Asia Pacific; Splintergroup, produced by Dancenorth and including its artistic director Gavin Webber; musician and instrument maker Linsey Pollak; award-winning physical theatre company Circa; the dynamic Tom Tom Club from Strut & Fret Production House; and Townsville’s Indigenous Mabo Dance Company.

The State Government, through Arts Queensland, provides funding and marketing support for participating artists and companies and also hosts a trade booth and reception for APAM delegates.

Mr Welford said Queensland artists were also featuring at this year’s Adelaide Fringe Festival, 22 February–16 March.

“Coinciding with APAM, the Adelaide Fringe Festival also offers an outstanding opportunity for exposure to national and international buyers,” 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 APAM or the Adelaide Fringe.”

Queenslanders taking part in the Adelaide Fringe Festival include Kate Miller-Heidke, The Brides of Frank, Polytoxic, Amanda-Lyn Pearson, flipside circus, Mark Winmill, Melissa Western, Aaron O’Brien, the nest, and comedians Sean Choolburra and fourplay.

Media contact: Emma Clarey on 3237 1000