Metro Arts‘ independent spirit and contribution to the arts sector has been recognised by writer, actor and musician Tim Minchin, who chose the organisation as his Queensland beneficiary to receive a donation from tickets sales of his current 2021 BACK tour. Current proceeds generated from Minchin’s VIP seats to date have resulted in an excess of $160,000 being donated to various arts organisations nationally.
Speaking of the initiative and selection of Metro Arts to receive funds, Minchin noted his choice was sparked by ongoing cuts to the arts sector, stacked with a particularly tough year: “I feel strongly that independent theatre is vital to the cultural health of our country. Not only because these groups produce fantastic work in their own right, but because independent theatre is the breeding ground of future mainstream artists. The cultural and economic impact of a big commercial show like Matilda the Musical would not exist without the independent theatres that let Dennis Kelly and I get our hands dirty in the early days.”
Metro Arts’ CEO + Creative Director Jo Thomas noted the news is a significant reflection of the work of Metro Arts and the organisation’s future vision. “We are thrilled to receive this recognition from Tim, and thank him and his team for recognising the importance of work we do and the invaluable contribution of art and artists to our community. In our new home in West End, we are showcasing the freshest talent, the bravest artists, the reboot of creativity and the ongoing grit and determination of community.”
Metro Arts has also newly appointed Chair and Deputy Chair, Dr Fiona Hawthorne and Brian Wyborn.
“We are thrilled to welcome Fiona as Chair of the Board and Brian as Deputy Chair of the Board. Their diverse lived and professional experiences are truly valued in the leadership of this incredibly passionate organisation.” We would also like to thank our previous Chair of the Board, Michael Cottier for his service over the past nine years. It has been a substantial time of change, and growth for Metro Arts that he has contributed to greatly.”
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