In July last year, Armidale was selected by the State Government as the Third City of the Arts. It joins Katoomba and Broken Hill. With funding of $300,000, the Third City of the Arts Managerial Committee has targeted youth and multiculturalism as key areas of the program.
The fact that Armidale and district has a young and very culturally diverse community is not always recognised. The Program aims to make cultural activities a priority across the community.
“It is a particularly pertinent issue for Local Government as it affects all aspects of community life,” said Cathy Ovenden, Cultural Development Officer. “Accordingly, it will be part of all Council activity ranging from tourism through to planning.”
Cathy said the region has many talented artists. This program will help them to gain an outlet and recognition for their work. She pointed out that cultural development also boosts local tourism and contributes to a sense of community togetherness.
Armidale has a year round program of cultural activity. This year it will include the inaugural Statewide Indigenous Arts Conference, which will include a look at issues including copyright and imitation.
Other new events are the first Armidale Women’s Comedy Festival, with popular TV personality Julie McCrossin as presenter, and the inaugural Outdoor Shakespeare Festival. This will be held in a natural amphitheatre at the University of New England and feature Othello.
Cathy is currently trying to encourage local business to think more widely than traditional sponsorships, such as sporting events, and consider cultural events.
For further information contact Cathy Ovenden, telephone (02) 6770 3568
