News

Outback Theatre comes of age

2 June 2006

Outback Theatre is set to become a fully independent organisation as a result of newly announced funding from both State and Federal Government sources. Grants of $5,000 each from Arts NSW and the Australia Council for the Arts have provided the essential infrastructure the company needs to take it into the future.

Outback Theatre began operating as a program of the regional arts board, South West Arts, in 1989 and on 9 May this year, it proudly became an incorporated association. From 2007 the company will be operating entirely independently.

Artistic Director for the company, Amy Hardingham, said, "The incorporation of Outback Theatre is a significant milestone for us."

"Our incorporation is the result of long-term process that began in 2003 when it was recognised that the company needed to overcome its problems of artistic isolation, dependence on South West Arts and other infrastructure issues affecting its sustainability," said Amy.

An independent steering committee was set up by South West Arts to guide Outback Theatre towards an autonomous future and that committee will shortly form the Board for Outback Theatre Inc.

“The ongoing support and commitment from South West Arts has provided stability, guidance and an opportunity for growth," said Amy.

"The Outback Theatre Management Committee appreciates and embraces South West Arts’ resolve to support Outback Theatre in ‘coming of age’, said Outback Theatre Management Committee Interim Chair Alicen Waugh, "and we look forward to a strong and ongoing relationship with South West Arts as we progress to the next stage of life for Outback Theatre."

The next phase of the independence process will include applying for funding for an innovative new model of operation to be implemented in 2007-2009.

"Over the next six months Outback Theatre will purchase office, computer, and digital media equipment; develop a new brand, print new stationery, and create a website,” Amy said.

“We are thrilled with the announcement of these grants – $10,000 is the springboard we need to ensure we have all the tools necessary to secure the funding to bring our exciting new model of operation to fruition."

Contact Amy Hardingham, Artistic Director, Outback Theatre Tel 02 6993 1715 Mob 0428 686 544 Email director@southwestarts.com.au