21 Mar 2018 Benalla Ensign, Benalla VIC (General News) Applications are now open for the Victorian Governments Small Regional Presenters program to bring new shows, performances and festivals to Victorian communities, such as Benalla. State Member for Northern Victoria Jaclyn Symes is encouraging local notfor-profit arts groups, arts societies, venues and councils to apply for a grant, and increase the range of cultural experiences available in regional Victoria. Grants of between $1500 to $15 000 are now available to support a single show or live event, a series of shows or an annual program. The Small Regional Presenters program supports venues or presenters working on the ground to attract shows to their area. Last years grants supported initiative across north-eastern Victoria including the King Valley Art Show, Echuca Moama Arts Initiative, Yarck Mechanics Institute and Library, Upper and Kiewa Valley Regional Arts. Northern Victoria is full of terrific venues and presenters who are passionate about bringing great theatre, music and other performances to local audiences and Labor will continue to support them, Ms Symes said. This program helps them attract the best shows and support local artists and creative organisations in our communities. Victoria is the creative state and regardless of where you live we are taking shows on the road. The government is getting behind regional galleries, performing arts centres, organisations and festivals and through other Creative Victoria programs, such as Touring Victoria, Music Works and VicArts Grants. The Small Regional Presenters program is now open for applications. To find out more about the program, visit creative.vic.gov.auLicensed by Copyright Agency. You may only copy or communicate this work with a licence.