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The NSW Government will provide more than $700,000 over two years to support projects that develop regional theatre in NSW.

Announcing the funding this week, NSW Minister for the Arts George Souris explained that regional theatre or arts organisations will be able to apply for funding of up to $60,000, for one year, or up to $75,000 for projects delivered over two years.

Minister Souris stated "this funding will provide opportunities for regional artists to develop and present theatre in regional NSW.

"We're expecting this program will support the development of new plays written by people living in regional communities, presented and produced locally, and performed by regional actors."

Minster Souris said emerging theatre makers in regional communities need more opportunities to link with professional arts organisations, and to present their work outside of local festivals.

He added "the NSW Government is responding to the needs of theatre makers in regional communities.

"The new funding program will help to build the capacity of regional organisations to create and present high quality professional theatre productions in regional NSW.

"It will also support the skills development of regional playwrights, actors, production staff and other creatives in regional communities, and help to develop and retain audiences for theatre."

Welcoming the funding, Regional Arts NSW Chief Executive "we applaud this funding from the NSW Government. It responds to requests from regional communities by providing skills development and performance opportunities for local theatre makers."

The regional theatre program replaces the Short + Sweet Regional program held in 2012 and 2013.

Applications opened on 4th March 2014 and close on 10th April 2014. The applications will be assessed by an independent panel and an announcement about the successful applicants will be made by June 2014.

For more information on the program, visit

http://www.arts.nsw.gov.au

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