Live music and performance grants to help local talent shine

Newcastle venues are being invited to apply for a new round of funding from City of Newcastle (CN) aimed at delivering more live, local performances during this year's New Annual festival.

A total of $10,000 is up for grabs in the latest round of the popular Locally Made and Played grant program to host live music, comedy or other performances, with all funding required to go directly to artists.

Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said CN is committed to supporting the local arts and culture scene which brings vibrancy to the city.

“Since its inception in 2021, the Locally Made and Played program has been an incredibly popular initiative, supporting more than 230 live music and cultural performances across the city and delivering almost $100,000 in direct support for artists,” Cr Nelmes said.

"The upcoming New Annual festival presents an opportunity to showcase Newcastle's lively cultural scene and home-grown talent to the thousands of people expected to descend on the city centre across the 10-day period.

"Incentivising local venues to host live music and performances during the festival gives visitors plenty of reasons to stay on and enjoy Newcastle's thriving and diverse nightlife.”

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Community and Culture Advisory Committee, Councillor Carol Duncan said the additional live performances will add to the overall vibrancy of the New Annual festival.

"Newcastle boasts a bustling live music and cultural scene and added live performances will really enhance that whole-of-city festival atmosphere during the 10-day festival," Cr Duncan.

“We look forward to welcoming locals and visitors alike into the city centre during New Annual to soak up all that Newcastle has to offer.”

Previous grant recipient, Marcus Wright from the Wickham Park Hotel, welcomed the return of the popular grant program.

“Live music and performance is the beating heart of a city and its pleasing to see City of Newcastle creating opportunities to ensure we are tapping into the influx of visitors here for New Annual whilst fostering our local talent," Mr Wright said.

"The funding grants will go a long way in continuing to support the ongoing recovery of the sector following years of COVID-19 disruptions."

Locally Made and Played grant applications open on Monday 17 July and close on Friday 4 August 2023. Visit City of Newcastle's Grants and Sponsorship's webpage for more information.

New Annual will run from 22 September to 1 October. Visit www.newannual.com for more details about the program and to secure your tickets.