Australia’s arts companies might be expecting cuts of up to AUD8.5m (€5.7m) in the 2016-17 budget, but it’s good news for a small group of Adelaide’s performing arts companies travelling to Scotland this summer.
The South Australian Government has invested AUD55,000 in a pilot initiative to develop cultural and market connections between Adelaide Fringe and Edinburgh Festival Fringe, with a view to improving booking and export opportunities for participants.
Nine independent artists will receive AUD2,000 to cover the costs of presenting their work in Edinburgh, or AUD5,000 for groups, whilst five runners-up will receive AUD500 for marketing and promotions through Arts South Australia and support to perform in Edinburgh under the Made in Adelaide banner.
An additional three music acts and artists have been supported through the Music Development Office (MDO). Acts taking part include Electric Fields; TKAY MAIDZA; and Adam Page, whose themed showcases for Made in Adelaide will promote Adelaide as a UNESCO City of Music.
The nine acts supported by Arts South Australia are: Gravity and Other Myths; Michaela Burger (company photo above); Anya Anastasia; Steve Foster; Michael Griffiths; Amelia Ryan; Delia Olam; Duncan Graham; and Gobsmacked Theatre Company.
Said Peter Louca, executive director, Arts South Australia: ‘Made in Adelaide aims to provide a coordinated hub providing networking business and development opportunities for artists, as well as a vibrant public space, so those in Edinburgh get a taste of the best Adelaide has to offer.
‘Discussions have commenced at inter-Government and organisational levels between Adelaide and Edinburgh Festivals and Fringes with a view to develop bilateral opportunities between our two cities.’
He added: ‘Arts Minister Jack Snelling will joining the artists in Edinburgh in late August to lend his support and help the negotiations creating the largest ever cultural trade delegation from South Australia to the Edinburgh events, to cement our place as the world’s number two festival city.’
Preparations are also underway for a proposed curated space in Edinburgh which will become a ‘home-base’ for Adelaide artists and a broader South Australian delegation showcasing local food, beverage and other premium South Australian products.