Liberal Member for Stuart Ayres has announced $24,215 in State Government funding to develop arts and cultural infrastructure in Penrith.
Penrith Performing and Visual Arts Ltd received the capital project grant under the 2012 Arts Funding Program.
“This funding is available for the construction, renovation or fitting out of buildings and other facilities for arts and cultural use.\” Mr Ayres said.
“This money will be put toward the technical upgrade of audio, lighting and visual systems at the 90 seat performance studio at the Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre.\”
Penrith Performing and Visual Arts Ltd Chief Executive Officer John Kirkman welcomed the funding.
\”This funding will allow us to upgrade lighting and sound in our most intimate performance space. These changes continue to make the Joan the most accessible and affordablearts facility in Western Sydney.\”
Minister for Tourism, Major Events, Hospitality, Racing and the Arts, George Souris said the funding will support the development of a mix of NSW performing arts centres, galleries, museums and community arts centres.
“This is fantastic news for communities from Leeton to Walgett and Penrith to Dorrigo,” Mr Souris said.
“From the city to the bush, each year this type of financial support increases access to purpose designed and well managed facilities.
“This type of funding adds value to the NSW network of arts and cultural facilities, particularly where it meets a specific local need.
“Capital Project Funding helps councils develop projects which add to local infrastructure and services.
“It also encourages active co-operation between local community groups, arts organisations and local councils to ensure the most efficient use of available recourses.”
The 2012 Arts Funding Program is worth more than $58 million in total.
The NSW Government has already announced funding for regional conservatoriums and regional performing arts touring projects as part of the 2012 program.
There will soon be more grant announcements under the Arts Funding Program.
