Epic performance receives arts award

THE City of Greater Bendigo has received an award for staging a production of Richard Wagner’s Ring Cycle at the Ulumbarra Theatre earlier this year.

The acknowledgment came in the form of a Performance Arts Centre Australia, or PAC Australia, Impact Award that celebrates “excellence in performing arts leadership, new thinking and best practice, with a focus on lasting impact in communities.”

Bendigo Venues and Events manager Julie Amos said municipal staff were thrilled to win the award.

“This is fantastic recognition for our talented staff at BV&E from technicians to ticket sellers, to our volunteer ushers, all of whom went above and beyond to welcome visitors and support our partners, Melbourne Opera, to stage an incredible production at our world-class venue,” she said.

“Despite a significantly smaller budget compared to the $15.3 million budget for Adelaide’s Ring Cycle in 2004 and $20 million budget for Melbourne in 2013, BV&E’s partnership with Melbourne Opera was able to achieve outstanding artistic results, whilst being resourceful and efficient.

“It was a bold and ambitious move to present the Ring Cycle in Bendigo, but our commitment to staging the extraordinary 15-hour opera marathon paid off beyond all expectations.

“It reinforced Bendigo’s reputation as a leading cultural and creative tourism destination and provided opportunities for our community to participate in an experience that is normally only available in capital cities.”

According to a statement from the City, data gathering firm REMPLAN reported that audience surveys showed Bendigo’s Ring Cycle contributed $4.36 million to the local economy and $7.22 million across Victoria

Close to 4000 people attended the shows which included the four operas, Das Rheingold, Die Walküre, Siegfried and Götterdämmerung that make up the Ring Cycle.

“Nearly four per cent of ticket purchasers were from overseas and 25 per cent were from interstate which is a new audience reach at BV&E,” said Ms Amos.

The performances included 350 performers and musicians, as well as backstage and front of house staff.