More local musicals will be taken from the page to the stage, with a $1 million fund to boost the development and production of new theatre shows in Victoria.
The Musical Theatre Development Fund, jointly funded by the City of Melbourne and Victorian Government, is designed to help talented creatives turn their ideas into reality on home soil.
While international productions remain a major drawcard in Melbourne’s theatre scene, this investment will strengthen the pipeline of homegrown musicals – helping original works find their rhythm in Melbourne before reaching audiences around the world.
Half of the fund is reserved for projects that tell Australian stories – giving Melburnians more opportunities to see local experiences in the spotlight.
The fund will support creatives at every stage of the journey, helping new ideas build momentum and giving original works the backing they need to reach larger audiences.
Established creative teams will be able to apply for significant grant funding to develop and advance original musical works.
The fund will also deliver professional development opportunities, including workshops, masterclasses and access to industry expertise – helping creatives refine their work and attract national and international investment.
Emerging creative teams will be supported to stage new productions in the City of Melbourne, and musical theatre students will have opportunities to attend workshops and performances.
An industry delivery partner soon be appointed to engage with the sector and deliver the program.
Quotes attributable to Lord Mayor Nick Reece
“This project has us singing from the rooftops. International productions have launched the careers of countless Melbourne creatives. Now it’s Melbourne’s turn to create the next global hit.”
“From Billy Elliot to Hamilton, some of the world’s most successful musicals started as local stories. We’re backing Melbourne creatives to tell ours.”
Quote attributable to Creative Melbourne portfolio head Councillor Philip Le LiuÂ
“Musical theatre is a major contributor to Melbourne’s creative economy – supporting thousands of writers, composers, performers, producers, technicians and other skilled creatives.”
Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries Vicki Ward Â
“Musical theatre is big business for Victoria – employing thousands of Victorians and drawing tourists from around the world.”
“This Fund gives Victorian stories the chance to shine on stages here and around the world.”
