Artists make Geelong CBD their stage

CENTRAL Geelong’s streets ring out with the sound of live music and entertainment every day of the week as part of the new Music in the City series.

The City of Greater Geelong is putting $100,000 into the program that will see local artists and street performers make Little Malop Street their stage, with shows in the centre of town from 12pm to 2pm each weekday this year.

Greater Geelong mayor Cr Peter Murrihy said the program is about much more than entertainment.

“Activating our streets helps people feel safe and welcome and has flow on effects for our economy and people’s sense of connection and wellbeing,” he said.

“Harnessing the talent of our local performers provides another reason to enjoy the shopping, dining and culture in central Geelong.”

In the coming months, Little Malop Street will host up-and-coming musicians including the soulful melodies of Izzy Khalife and Pepper Willow, Geelong local Tom Stevenson with original soul to upbeat pop and covers, and Matt Baird from the successful local cover band Test Pilot Molly.

Chair of the Arts, Live Entertainment and Hospitality committee Cr Eddy Kontelj the free entertainment will bring a sense of joy, connection and community for residents and visitors to central Geelong.

“The program is creating work for local performers while encouraging people to come back to central Geelong,” he said.

“The talent in Greater Geelong is amazing and we’re so pleased to give local performers and bands a platform to share their music and entertainment.”

Cr Kontelj said the Music in the City program aims to builds on the city’s vibrant annual calendar of creative events attract locals, visitors and investors to Central Geelong.

 

– BY LUCY CROCK