Urgent call to save Northern Rivers arts company after shock funding loss

DISABILITY-led arts company Sprung Dance Theatre has lost its core multi-year funding from Create NSW and is calling on the community to help secure its future this AusArt Day on October 23.

Based in the Northern Rivers, the company has been a creative home for deaf and disabled artists for 15 years, producing contemporary performances that challenge perceptions and diversify representation in the arts.

Ensemble and artist manager Katie Cooper-Wares said there were very few arts companies producing the type of work it did.

 

“Without financial support, Sprung Dance Theatre may not survive,” Wares said.

“When you support us this AusArt Day, you’re investing in the next generation of deaf and disabled artists and changing who gets to be seen and heard on Australian stages.”

The company’s loss of multi-year funding has prompted a local campaign to ensure deaf and disabled artists continue to be seen and celebrated.

AusArt Day, an initiative spearheaded by Creative Australia, is a nationwide fundraising event encouraging Australians to support artists and arts organisations.

The one-day campaign was designed to mobilise the arts sector to raise funds for creative work and ambitions on a unified day of action.

The national movement aims to celebrate and elevate the role of the arts in Australian life, recognising the contribution artists and organisations make to communities across the country.

To support Sprung Dance Theatre on Thursday, October 23, visit creative.gov.au/ausartday