The Geraldton community is invited to share in the benefits of two new programs to bring dynamic shows and performing artists to regional centres.

Nationals WA Member of Parliament and candidate for the seat of Geraldton Paul Brown MP said the investment of $1.3 million in the New Work in the House and Artists in the House initiatives would see performances created that were relevant to local audiences, along with exciting artist-inresidence programs.

“I encourage Geraldton performing artists to pitch their ideas and apply for funding,” Mr Brown said.

“This is about supporting and creating regional jobs in the arts sector, while entertaining and inspiring local residents.

“It is another example of the Liberal National Government’s commitment to ensuring country communities have access to as many cultural opportunities as possible.”

The funding has come from Royalties for Regions, through the four-year, $24 million Creative Regions program.

“The $1 million New Work in the House program will challenge Western Australian performers and performing arts companies to create work that will engage both regional and metropolitan audiences,” Mr Brown said.

“But the bottom line is that the performances will have to be produced and premiered in country WA, which will help drive job creation and community engagement.”

The $315,000 Artists in the House program will help fund artist-in-residence programs designed to activate regional venues.

“I have no doubt the Geraldton community will benefit because both programs will support strong interaction between performers and local residents,” Mr Brown said.

“The two new programs will dovetail with other Creative Regions initiatives, which support touring shows and improving local venues.”

Applications for stage one of New Work in the House are now open and close on 15 December 2016. The second stage opens February 2017 and closes at the end of March 2017. Applications for Artists in the House open in February 2017 and close at the end of March 2017

For more information on the new grants programs, visit: http://www.dca.wa.gov.au/onlinegrants/online-grants-programs/