A Bendigo-based theatre company that focuses on young people has won a $225,000 grant to help it deliver its work in a new way during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Arena Theatre Company's artistic director Christian Leavesley said the state government contribution would fund the organisation's continuing operations at a time when it had lost almost all revenue.
This year, the company was scheduled to tour to China, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and through regional NSW, but these were all cancelled.
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Also cancelled was the company's Bendigo season, Mr Leavesley said, and its work in schools.
Instead, he said, the company was turning its focus towards central Victoria and online work.
This will include online workshops for students and teachers, and livestreaming shows with an online Q and A session afterwards.
Mr Leavesley said the company had also developed an online version of its Hidden Creature Gallery project, which premiered at last year's Castlemaine State Festival.
"This funding is really about us reimagining the company for next year and really setting us up to be able to deliver a program for next year," he said.
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He said the funding also meant the organisation was able to maintain its core staff - something it would have found difficult to do otherwise - and train new staff.
"What we're really excited about is training local artists in the work we can do online," Mr Leavesley said.
He said the organisation was grateful to the state government for recognising the impact the organisation had been making in the region.
Local MPs Jacinta Allan and Maree Edwards said the funding - provided through the government's Strategic Investment Fund - aimed to protect jobs, help organisations survive the pandemic period, and support organisations to find new ways to reach audiences and raise revenue.
City of Greater Bendigo strategy and growth director Bernie O'Sullivan said the funding announcement was "fantastic" news, which would secure the company's future in the city.
Arena Theatre Company is now seeking expressions of interest from artists - of all disciplines - with a passion for working with children and young people.
More details are available on the organisation's website.
Natalie Croxon
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
Reporter at the Illawarra Mercury, mostly covering social affairs. Previously of the Bendigo Advertiser, Northern Daily Leader and Quirindi Advocate. Our Watch award winner.
