Sydney Opera House (SOH) has launched a new programme for Australian artists. Created in response to COVID-19, New Work Now commissions will be worth more than AUD1m (€609,000).
New Work Now will include First Nations performances, classical and contemporary music, talks and ideas, contemporary performance, work for children and families, and digital works.
Performances announced so far include Diary of One Who Disappeared by Sydney Chamber Opera; Indigenous World Art Orchestra, which brings together First Nations musicians and artists around the world; and CRUSH, created by street performers Branch Nebula.
“When the COVID-19 pandemic hit Australia in March, live performances largely ceased, with unprecedented impacts on artists, arts workers and audiences,” commented SOH CEO Louise Herron. “New Work Now responds directly to these challenges by commissioning local artists to create and present new works.”
New Work Now is funded by major donors, corporate partners, staff and contractors.
Added Herron: “As a cultural icon and symbol of Australia, the Opera House is committed to inspiring and strengthening the community through everything we do. I extend our deepest gratitude to everyone who has given so generously to support New Work Now, and I look forward to seeing the works come to life.”
