Publican Adam Hardy has given City of Newcastle’s Locally Made and Played Grant initiative the “thumbs up”.
As the city emerges from lockdown, council announced the return of its program with funding available to showcase talented local artists and incentivise venues to host live performances.
Venues are invited to apply for up to $1,500 to stage concerts, comedy nights or micro-theatre style performances.
The funds will be used to support individual performers and artists at $300 per show.
A previous grant recipient, Mr Hardy from The Rogue Scholar said the new round of funding came at a critical time.
“There are many local performers and artists who’re relying on venues to re-open and invite them to perform for their livelihood,” he explained.
“This [City of Newcastle] announcement will be music to the ears of the ‘live’ performance industry, who have been hit hard by the prolonged lockdown.
“They add to the fabric of our community and its pleasing to see council is creating opportunities to ensure we are fostering our local talent.”
Deputy Lord Mayor Declan Clausen admitted with restrictions easing, now was the perfect time to start activating the city and welcoming back music and performances.
“It’s been a very tough few months for our community,” he said.
“Many Novocastrians are emerging from lockdown with a new spring in their step and look forward to celebrating their newfound freedom.
“Live music and performances will breathe life back into our city.
“City of Newcastle is committed to activating Newcastle and creating opportunities for 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 Carol Duncan said Newcastle’s once bustling live music and cultural scene was set to rebound with the support of the Locally Made and Played Grants.
“Performances funded by the program will apply to performances that take place between 1 and 20 December, 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 explained.
“We look forward to welcoming locals and visitors back over this period to enjoy the lively atmosphere that Newcastle has to offer.”
Grants applications are now open and close on 29 October.
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.
Get all the latest Newcastle news, sport, entertainment, lifestyle, competitions and more delivered straight to your inbox with the Newcastle Weekly Daily Newsletter. Sign up here.