Ingham Theatre Group Awarded $23K Grant To Take Performances Across Region

Ingham Theatre Group welcomes new funding that will help bring live theatre to communities across the Hinchinbrook Shire. Photo credit: Bella Drewett Photography and Film

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Ingham Theatre Group will soon enter a bright new chapter after receiving a generous grant totalling just over $23,500 from the Queensland Government’s Gambling Community Benefit Fund to purchase portable lighting equipment and staging.

Alan Giles, President of Ingham Theatre Group explained the investment will allow the group to deliver high-quality theatre productions across a variety of venues throughout the Hinchinbrook Shire, rather than being limited to a single performance space.

“This funding allows us to take theatre anywhere it’s needed in our district and this support gives us confidence to keep building and delivering for our community,” said Mr Giles.

“It gives us the flexibility to perform in any venue, regardless of venue’s limitations and for our members, it means more opportunities to perform in a professional environment, but importantly, for the community, it means we can bring theatre directly to them.”

As part of a larger $19.5 million initiative supporting approximately 800 community groups, the Gambling Community Benefit Fund supports not-for-profit community groups to deliver vital community services and activities.  

Mr Giles said the funding would significantly broaden opportunities for both members and the wider community, with the ability to stage productions in locations such as Forrest Beach, Halifax and Abergowrie set to strengthen local engagement and participation in the Ingham Theatre Group.

“It’s not just about putting on shows, we’re building community as theatre brings people together in a way that’s unique and that’s something we’re very proud of,” Mr Giles added.

Similarly to several other local organisations, the Ingham Theatre Group has faced a range of challenges in recent times, including flooding impacts, restricted access to venues such as the J.L. Kelly Theatre, and limited infrastructure; making this funding all the more timely.

“Funding like this is critical for regional groups,” Mr Giles said.

“It’s not about equipment, it’s about ensuring that the Ingham Theatre Group can continue to operate, adapt, and keep the arts alive in our community.  

We sincerely thank the Queensland Government Gambling Community Benefit Fund for the grant and the Hinchinbrook Shire Council for the support that they have given to this application and to live theatre in the district.”

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