Four regional Australian venues form consortium to develop new theatre works

Creative Australia has revealed an initial investment of $280,000 for the first year in the Second Cities Producing Consortium. This four-year pilot program unites the Geelong Arts Centre (Victoria), Merrigong Theatre Company (Wollongong, NSW), HOTA Home of the Arts (Gold Coast, Queensland), and Canberra Theatre Centre (ACT). The consortium's goal is to collaboratively invest in the creation and presentation of large-scale Australian theatre productions, establishing a national network that links artists, production partners, and regional venues. This initiative addresses the challenges posed by increasing production expenses and disjointed touring models that have led to a crisis in live performances across Australia. The consortium serves a combined audience of 2.6 million, with 1.2 million attendees each year. Each member receives support from state and local governments, with pilot projects set to be announced next year.