Local talent shines through artist development program

Redland City Council’s PASSAGE Artist Development Program is supporting a diverse range of landmark projects and local talent.

Mayor Karen Williams said the program was a testament to Council’s commitment to cultivating a vibrant arts community.

“The inaugural program has awarded grants and in-kind support to projects that showcase the rich talent and creativity on Redlands Coast and the broader south-east Queensland creative sector,” Cr Williams said.

“By supporting these diverse and landmark projects, Council aims to amplify the voices of local artists, inspire creativity and ignite conversations that contribute to the cultural fabric of Redlands Coast and beyond.

“The year-round, independent arts program has fast become an influential hub for artists to create and present new work, with the aim of fostering the growth and development of emerging and established artists, their cutting-edge ideas and important practice.”

Program funding for the 2023/24 financial year is now open.

Division 2 Councillor Peter Mitchell said PASSAGE’s four key initiatives provided opportunities for professional, semi-professional and emerging artists across all disciplines of performing, visual and multi-arts.

“All artists, creatives and companies with meaningful connection to Redlands Coast are encouraged to apply,” Cr Mitchell said.

“This could be the breakthrough that artists and creatives need to bring their idea to life.”

Recipients of the inaugural PASSAGE Artist Development Program grants were:

Channel Initiative – participants awarded $2000 to pay artists wages for the development of new work:

MIXTAPE: Rewind to the 80s by Hayden Rodgers. A light-hearted and ground-breaking performance work that delves into nostalgia and explores the intertwining themes of music, culture and personal journeys. The Hoarderculturalist by Kristian Santic. A 60-minute promenade theatre work for children performed in public spaces and community gardens, providing a unique perspective on Redlands Coast history, family relationships, personal identity, sustainability and environmental discovery. Crazy F*cking B*tches by Little Life Theatre. An audacious and thought-provoking production that challenges societal norms and explores intersectional feminism through physical theatre and dance. Zen Zen Zo Physical Theatre received venue and staffing support through the Stream Initiative of the PASSAGE Artist Development Program to develop ‘Wired Differently’.

Stream Initiative – participants awarded up to $2000 in-kind venue and staffing support for the development of existing work:

A Girl’s Guide to World War by Musical Theatre Australia. Based on true events, this truly Australian musical follows the untold adventures of ‘lady doctors’ during World War I. It was performed to sell-out crowds in 2018, 2019 and 2022. Hear Our Song – Documentary. Capturing the powerful stories and experiences of local individuals who have found solace, inspiration, and healing through music. This is a partnership between Cleveland Film Company and Redland City Choir. The Bigger Picture: Rehearsal. Sachém and Atlas Studios were awarded in-kind venue support to rehearse for the remount of The Bigger Picture in the QPAC Concert Hall. Wired Differently – Creative Development. Zen Zen Zo Physical Theatre was supported to develop their newest work exploring social political issues around disability and neurodivergence, challenging conventional thinking and providing fresh insights into the world around us.

For more information and program guidelines, visit rpac.com.au/PASSAGE or contact the RPAC Box Office on 3829 8131.