Published Friday, 07 March, 2008 at 04:19 PM

Minister for Education and Training and Minister for the Arts
The Honourable Rod Welford

New opportunities for Queenslanders to Test Drive the Arts

Another eight performing arts companies and venues have joined the State Government’s successful Test Drive the Arts program, Arts Minister Rod Welford announced today.

Mr Welford said more than 1,000 arts newcomers had experienced free live performances through the Test Drive initiative, since it was launched last August.

“This program is about introducing new audiences to the performing arts and generating repeat patronage for our arts organisations,” Mr Welford said.

“Since Test Drive began, complimentary tickets to the value of around $40,000 have been given away to productions by 20 of Queensland’s top performing arts companies and venues.

“The response from patrons has been very positive and this success is set to continue in 2008 with eight new arts organisations and venues joining the program.”

New organisations to join the Test Drive program include – Circa, Expressions Dance Company, Kooemba Jdarra Indigenous Performing Arts, Harvest Rain, Musica Viva Australia, Queensland Conservatorium, Pilbeam Theatre in Rockhampton and Riverway Arts Centre in Thuringowa.

Mr Welford said he was pleased to have more regional organisations on board for the Test Drive program in 2008.

“It is especially important for residents outside of Brisbane to be given the opportunity to experience live performance in their own communities,” he said.

“Test Drive is an ideal entry point for first-time arts patrons as it offers an introductory ‘try-before-you-buy’ experience.

“The idea is to develop an ongoing relationship between the new patron and the company or venue.”

The Queensland Government has committed $124,000 to this audience building initiative and the Federal Government, through The Australia Council, has provided an additional $60,000. The online partner for Test Drive the Arts is ourbrisbane.com.

People interested in “test-driving the arts” can register for complimentary tickets from a menu of performances at www.testdrivethearts.com. Patrons who enjoy the Test Drive experience will be eligible for further special offers and discounts.

Media contact: Emma Clarey on 3237 1000