New funding to welcome back live performances

As the city emerges from lockdown, City of Newcastle has announced the return of its ‘Locally Made and Played Grant' program with funding available to showcase talented local artists and incentivise venues to host live performances.

Venues are invited to apply for up to $1500 in grant funding to host live music, comedy or micro-theatre style performances. The funds will be used to support individual performers and artists at $300 per performance.

Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen said with restrictions easing, now is the perfect time to start activating the city and welcoming back live music and performances.

“It’s been a very tough few months for our community, and many Novocastrians are emerging from lockdown with a new spring in their step and look forward to celebrating their newfound freedom,” Cr Clausen said.

“Live music and performances will breathe life back into our city. City of Newcastle is committed to activating Newcastle and creating opportunities for live performances, which will provide a much-needed boost to the arts and hospitality sectors.

“The two-pronged funding approach will not only provide a boost to local venues financially hit as a result of COVID-19 but will also help support our local performing artists.”

Chair of City of Newcastle’s Community and Culture Advisory Committee, Councillor Carol Duncan said Newcastle’s once bustling live music and cultural scene is set to rebound with the support of the Locally Made and Played Grants.

“Live performances funded by the Locally Made and Played Grant will apply to performances that take place between 1 and 20 December 2021, to coincide with the easing of restrictions and warmer weather, when more people venture out in the lead up to the busy Christmas trading period,” Cr Duncan said.

“We look forward to welcoming locals and visitors back over this period to enjoy the lively atmosphere that Newcastle has to offer.”

Previous grant recipient, publican Adam Hardy from The Rogue Scholar said the new round of grant funding comes at a critical time, with many local performers and artists are relying on venues to reopen and invite them to perform, for their livelihood.

“This announcement will be music to the ears of the local live performance industry, who have been hit hard by the prolonged lockdown,” Mr Hardy said.

“Live performances add to the fabric of our community and its pleasing to see City of Newcastle are creating opportunities to ensure we are fostering our local talent.”

Grants applications are now open and close on 29 October 2021.

The Locally Made and Played Grant is part of City of Newcastle’s COVID-19 Community Economic Resilience Program.

Visit City of Newcastle's Grants and Sponsorship's webpage for more information.