BREC receives funding to bring back artist’s retreat for emerging South West creators

Emerging artists in the South West will soon be able to attend an intensive weekend theatre retreat, thanks to new funding from the State Government.

Bunbury Regional Theatre Incorporated was named as one of 13 projects to receive a cash splash from the State wallet as part of the Arts 15k-plus program.

The organisation, based at Bunbury Regional Entertainment Centre, is set to receive $49,979 to go towards the company’s third artist’s retreat.

First held in 2019 in collaboration with Tasmania production company Performing Lines, the retreat allows 20 lucky artists to collaborate with five mentors to further develop their projects by exploring a variety of perform-based concepts.

BREC artistic administrator Stephanie Reeve said the program will aim to provide a supportive, creative environment to test ideas, consider new collaborations and explore cross artform possibilities.

“We’re so excited to be bringing the BREC Artist Retreat to the South West once again,” she said.

“Our region is full of incredibly fascinating stories and talented artists we can’t wait to assist them grow their projects... this is a really special opportunity and we can’t wait to see who will join us in 2023.”

The Arts 15k-plus program seeks to support larger arts projects across the State, offering up to $60,000 for artists or organisations to put towards one-off events or a series of activities.

The program has invested $1.4 million to organisations around the State since its inception in 2022, to bring high-quality arts and cultural experiences to new audiences and share West Australian stories.

Minister for Culture and Arts David Templeman said he is proud to support the “growth and vibrancy” of the WA arts scene.

“The Arts 15k-plus program gives our local artists the chance to work on a new project or program of activities commencing after February 2023,” he said.

“These artists and arts organisations will be supported to do what they do best – bringing exciting new ideas to life for us, their audience.”