Regional New South Wales is buzzing with excitement as a flurry of events and productions are set to grace the stage of various venues. Among them, the Roxy Theatre in the Riverina region stands out, having undergone a magnificent restoration thanks to over $6 million in state funding. The Roxy, known for its 1930s art deco charm and iconic neon signs, has been a beloved cultural hub hosting a myriad of events for the local community.
Decades of history and community support have culminated in the completion of stage one of the Roxy’s restoration, with the main auditorium now shining brightly as a multifunctional space for Leeton’s residents. This revival is part of a broader initiative that sees 36 regional venues across New South Wales preparing to welcome over 76,000 attendees to a diverse array of performances, following a substantial allocation of $700,000 from the regional arts touring fund.
Not far from the Roxy, Deniliquin’s Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre has also undergone significant development, becoming a vital cultural training hub and home to historical archives of the First Nations people. Meanwhile, the Mudgee arts precinct has seen a remarkable transformation, attracting over 23,000 visitors in its inaugural year with its new exhibition spaces, sculpture garden, and artist facilities.
These rejuvenated venues are set to host a range of performances, including the Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre’s production of Bombshells and Belvoir St Theatre’s Lose to Win, a poignant one-man show by South Sudanese refugee Mandela Mathia. Another compelling production making its rounds is the Secrets of Dawn Tour, shedding light on the propaganda of the past and honoring the resilience of Indigenous communities.
Meagan Gerrard and Alex McWhirter, leaders of the Coota Girls Aboriginal Corporation, are spearheading the Secrets of Dawn Tour, emphasizing the importance of truth-telling and healing for Stolen Generations survivors. Their dedication to preserving culture and sharing stories reflects a broader commitment to cultural preservation and community empowerment.
While these cultural endeavors are flourishing, concerns have been raised regarding the funding of regional public galleries and museums. The NSW Arts Minister, John Graham, has defended the importance of arts and culture in regional communities, highlighting the transformative impact of cultural experiences on individuals and towns alike.
As the future of some regional galleries hangs in the balance, Create NSW is set to assess two-year grants, offering a potential lifeline to those institutions facing funding uncertainties. Despite challenges, the vibrant arts scene in regional New South Wales continues to thrive, offering diverse and enriching experiences to audiences and artists alike.
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