A funding program targeted at helping venues host live events and support local talent is now on offer, just in time for the City’s reemergence out of lockdown.
Funded by the City of Newcastle, the Locally Made and Played Grant invites venues to apply for up to $1500 in grant funding to host live music, comedy or micro-theatre style performances.
The funds will also be used to support individual performers and artists at $300 per performance.
The Rogue Scholar Publican, Adam Hardy is a previous grant recipient and said the new round of grant funding had come at a critical time for the community.
“This announcement will be music to the ears of the local live performance industry, who have been hit hard by the prolonged lockdown,” Hardy said.
“Live performances add to the fabric of our community and it’s pleasing to see City of Newcastle are creating opportunities to ensure we are fostering our local talent.”
Chair of City of Newcastle’s Community and Culture Advisory Committee, Councillor Carol Duncan said the grant would revitalise Newcastle’s live music and cultural scene.
“Live performance funded by the Locally Made and Played Grant will apply to performances that take place between 1 and 20 December 2021, to coincide with the easing of restrictions and warmer weather, when more people venture out in the lead up to the busy Christmas trading period,” Cr Duncan said.
“We look forward to welcoming locals and visitors back over this period to enjoy the lively atmosphere that Newcastle has to offer.
“Novocastrians are emerging from lockdown with a new spring in their step and look forward to celebrating their newfound freedom.
“The two-pronged funding approach will not only provide a boost to local venues financially hit as a result of COVID-19 but will also help support our local performing artists.”
Grants applications are now open and close on 29 October 2021.
Visit City of Newcastle’s Grants and Sponsorship’s webpage for more information.
Information source: Media release, City fo Newcastle