Leg up for theatre company ahead of October festival

YOUTH-focused theatre producer Arena Theatre Company has received $38,500 via the Federal Government’s Festivals Australia program for an immersive area at its upcoming Creativerse Festival.

The festival at Ulumbarra Theatre in October is angled towards families with children aged five to 12 and will offer a

blend of art, technology and interactive play, with the immersive zone set to transform the

theatre’s foyer into a laboratory where families can create their own art.

“From animation, photography and motion capture, to creating soundscapes and interactive audio-visual responses through movement, the (zone) will be the perfect place for children and families to create their own masterpieces,” Federal Member for Bendigo Lisa Chesters said, adding that the city has a proud arts community.

“It’s one of the things that makes our region such a great place to live,” she said.

Minister for the Arts Tony Burke said regional festivals are woven into the fabric of towns.

“They’re an opportunity for up-and-coming artists to put their name in lights and they provide a platform for Australia’s international artists to perform to regional and remote audiences across the country,” he said.

“Our support for festivals drives local economies by fostering cultural tourism and bringing visitors into our regions.”

Applications for Round 21 of the program are expected to open in September.

More information can be found on the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Regional Development, Communications, Sport and the Arts website.