Elise Archer,Minister for the Arts
In March 2021 our Government launched the $2 million Live Performance Support Program, designed to give the sector confidence to plan live performances in Tasmanian theatres and other venues throughout 2021.
In recognition of the evolving challenges of COVID-19, we have now extended the program for performances and events until 30 September 2022.
The program, administered by Arts Tasmania, sees the Tasmanian Government share some of the risk of potential lost ticket sales if performances need to be cancelled or significantly modified due to changes to Public Health directives relating to COVID-19.
Tasmanian arts organisations, festival organisers, cultural producers and performing arts venues responsible for box office risk on performances or events in the eligible period can apply for a guarantee ranging from $10,000 to $100,000.
In addition to extending the program, we have also made changes to the program guidelines to ensure that it remains responsive to the ongoing risks of presenting performances in Tasmania in 2022.
Grounds for claiming a guarantee will now include cancellation or postponement of performances while cast and crew members quarantine or isolate in accordance with Public Health or State Directives.
Eligible organisations will need to apply for pre-approval of support at least 25 business days before a scheduled performance.
This program is just one initiative in our comprehensive package of financial support for the arts, screen and cultural sector in response to COVID-19, totalling over $12 million in new and ongoing support measures since March 2020.
The cultural and creative industries in Tasmania have demonstrated great resilience and responsiveness when faced with the evolving challenges of COVID-19.
The Tasmanian Government is committed to continuing to support our cultural and creative industries through these challenging times.
