Communities across regional NSW will soon enjoy a cultural boost, thanks to a $700,000 investment from the NSW Government to support the touring of local arts and cultural productions.
36 regional towns including Cowra will host performances, plays, exhibitions and workshops by some of NSW’s most exciting artists in the coming year.
The funding, delivered through the Regional Arts Touring program, will see ten new tours hit the road showcasing everything from First Nations-led theatre and children’s shows to dance, museum exhibitions, music and spoken word. In total, over 76,000 people are expected to attend one of these vibrant cultural events.
The program is also supporting the revitalisation of arts spaces, with venues like Leeton's Roxy Theatre, Deniliquin's Yarkuwa Indigenous Knowledge Centre, and the Mudgee Arts Precinct welcoming visitors to enjoy performances in newly refurbished surroundings.
Minister for the Arts John Graham said the funding was about more than just entertainment - it’s about connection and opportunity.
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“Touring is vital for artists and arts organisations to engage new audiences,” he said. “For regional audiences, these events provide access to stories and performances that reflect their lives, inspire imagination and help communities thrive.”
Importantly, 40% of the successful projects were developed by regional artists, ensuring that local voices and stories remain at the heart of the touring program. The updated funding guidelines have also broadened support to include small-scale tours by emerging artists and greater inclusion of priority regions like Western Sydney.
For many recipients, this is a dream come true, such as Northern Rivers dancer Max McAuley and writer-performer Mandela Mathia, who will both debut their work on tour for the first time.
Kerri Glasscock, Executive Director of Create NSW, highlighted the broader impact: “Touring ensures groundbreaking arts and cultural experiences are accessible in every corner of NSW. It allows artists - from emerging to established - to expand their reach and connect with new communities.”
With 60 talented creatives involved in the upcoming tours, regional audiences can look forward to a year filled with powerful performances and inspiring cultural moments.
For more information about the Regional Arts Touring funding program, visit the Create NSW website.
