The Push to Review Oz Theatre

Joyce Morgan in the West Australian recently wrote an article which made little bubbles of happiness well up inside me. It was titled "Backing for theatre review" which in itself caught my eye and complete attention.

'Australian Council chairman James Strong has lent his support to an inquiry into the troubled theatre sector.' It was the first paragraph and it spoke volumes. The "Troubled" theatre sector. You mean someone in Federal Government actually realised this? GREAT! I read on... "I think it probably would be a very worthwhile exercise," Strong said. "These major reviews have been a very successful look at particular arts segments."

'Strong said the council would seek an extra $14 million for this sector in next year's budget.' That's a nice little piggy bank, but will it be enough for national application?

The statement was made in association with the appointment of Kathy Keele as the council's Chief Executive. You can read the Offical Media Release here.

There does certainly appear to be growing support at the government level for the theatrical community. With new entertianment venues, funding reviews and swelling numbers, the future for theatre is not looking as bleak as it once was.

The Australian Council for the Arts is the federal body supervising arts funding. It provides support for young, emerging and established artists, as well as new and established organisations.