Funding initiative to benefit arts in Townsville

Arts Minister Rod Welford and Member for Townsville Mike Reynolds have announced a new arts funding partnership between the State Government and Townsville City Council.

Mr Welford said the Industry Development Initiative funding would boost local arts companies and promote the region’s unique cultural strengths.

“Our Government is delivering $100,000 for a series of local performing arts projects, which will be co-ordinated by Townsville City Council in 2008,” Mr Welford said.

“Delivering and nurturing arts in the regions is a priority for our Government and we will continue to develop partnerships with local authorities, as we already do extensively with our Regional Arts Development Fund.”

Mr Reynolds said he was pleased the Townsville community would benefit from Arts Queensland’s new Industry Development Initiative funding.

“Under the program in 2008, Tropic Sun Theatre will receive $80,000 and Extensions Youth Dance Company will receive $20,000,” Mr Reynolds said.

“With the support of two other local State Members, Lindy Nelson-Carr and Craig Wallace, I have worked hard to deliver positive results for both of these worthy companies to receive State Government financial assistance.

“I have made several representations to both the Premier and the Minister, seeking funding options for Tropic Sun and Extensions and I am very pleased that the strong continuous lobbying has been answered.”

Townsville City Mayor Tony Mooney said Council would work closely with the State Government to facilitate the funding to ensure the projects strengthen the viability and growth of the arts in the region.

“It is heartening for our community to receive additional financial support through Arts Queensland’s new scheme, which complements Council’s funding of $40,000 to Tropic Sun Theatre and $5,000 to Extensions Youth Dance Company,” Mr Mooney said.

Cr Mooney said two projects, to be presented by Tropic Sun Theatre, were developed by long-time artistic director Dr Jean-Pierre Voos, who passed away in January.

“Tropic Sun will present a series of productions with the first one, Futz, touring to Mackay, Townsville, Cairns and Darwin from March to June 2008, giving actors and trainees an opportunity to put in practice skills they have learned through the company’s training,” he said.

“Later in the year, Richard III will be a major drawcard in Shakespeare under the Stars, part of Townsville City Council’s annual Elizabethan Fair in August and September.

“The final project, Le Chat Noir, will be a collaborative development between Extensions Youth Dance Company and La Luna Youth Arts.

“Le Chat Noir, to be presented in June will recreate the ambience and intimacy of a Paris cabaret, with a distinctive North Queensland influence.”

Media contact: Minister Welford’s Office – Emma Clarey on 3237 1000