Driving and Activating the Regional Theatre Sector (DARTS)

DARTS (Driving and Activating the Regional Theatre Sector) is a three-year, artist-led initiative spearheaded by JUTE Theatre Company in collaboration with a cohort of 50+ theatre makers living and working in regional Queensland (the ‘DARTS Cohort’).

Over the course of 2024 – 2026, the DARTS Cohort will implement a suite of co-designed programs across skills development and artist residencies, interregional touring, creative development, and production. Using artist-led decision making processes, the DARTS model centres regional theatre makers as leaders and drivers of the DARTS vision: to develop a thriving regional theatre sector for all Queenslanders.

By embracing new perspectives, championing regional artists, and creating meaningful experiences, DARTS – under the stewardship of industry leader, JUTE Theatre Company – is poised to contribute to the long-term sustainability and growth of the theatre sector, while honouring the cultural heritage and stories of Queensland’s regional centres. 

To develop a thriving regional theatre sector for all Queenslanders

Our objective is to increase employment and foster the capacity and independence of regional centres. We aim to achieve this by supporting the sector to create authentic local works of exceptional quality. As we approach the Brisbane Olympics in 2032, our vision is to collaborate with partners and empower regional communities. Through a dedicated cross-regional development, production and touring program, we aim to celebrate and promote the richness of authentic local works. Our goal is to highlight the creativity and cultural diversity of our regions as part of the 2032 Brisbane Olympics.

• Forge collaborative partnerships – with strong partnerships and investment between both regional and metropolitan organisations
• Develop skills and professional growth – through skills programs, secondment opportunities and residencies
• Increase capacity and independence – enabling regional centres to create high-quality new works
• Amplify diverse voices – using culturally respectful processes and protocols that celebrate the diversity of regional Queensland
• Engage diverse audiences – by fostering deep connections with diverse regional communities
• Support touring and regional reach – with productions and performances connecting across Queensland, expanding the reach & impact of regional theatre through investment in skills and collaboration

Throughout the 32-year journey of JUTE, we have maintained regular contact with our Australian regional theatre counterparts to address the need for capacity building opportunities and discuss the challenges arising from limited resources, investment, and leadership in undertaking this process.

The emergence of Covid presented us with an unexpected opportunity to explore the power of digital connections in breaking down barriers. Thanks to the support of a 3-year project funded through the Regional Arts Fund – Renewal fund (Build Back Better, 2021-2023), we were able to engage with the regional sector, identify crucial skills gaps, and implement extensive online and in-person skills development programs. Additionally, we fostered valuable relationships that facilitated the cross-regional touring of locally produced work.

Based on the Build Back Better program feedback and future needs analysis, JUTE has developed a business case and 3-year strategy for continued support for the regional theatre sector.

JUTE’s approach to this project is rooted in strategic thinking, capacity building, and forging new pathways. The company is dedicated to championing regional artists, cultivating new audiences, and creating life-changing experiences through theatre.

Key components of the Driving and Activating the Regional Theatre Sector (DARTS) initiative include embracing Brisbane 2032 across Queensland, elevating First Nations arts, activating the state’s various places and spaces, driving social change, and strengthening communities. By sharing our regional stories and celebrating our storytellers, this project aligns with the goals outlined in the Queensland Government Creative Together Grow Roadmap, which aims to nurture a brighter, bolder, more diverse, and sustainable creative landscape for the state.

Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, JUTE aims to work with regional artists and companies to achieve long-term impact and transformation in the regional theatre sector. The project will leverage the momentum of the Brisbane 2032 Olympics to drive positive change, provide platforms for First Nations artists, activate Queensland’s unique cultural assets, and foster a sense of community engagement.

2024:

THEATRE AND AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT

• Roll out theatre skills development and network-making program (virtual/in person) inspired by the successful Build Back Better Model.
• Writer-in-residence program 
• Secondment opportunities through regional and metropolitan partners.
• Develop models for diverse audience engagement
• Generate diverse work exploring a variety of regional perspectives (i.e. First Nations, CALD, Queer, Gender diverse, Artists with disability/Disabled artists) 
• Amplify the national significance of regional theatre practice
• Develop marketing strategies & risk management framework appropriate to regional theatre centres and program goals.
• Develop an Investment Framework for the regional theatre sector to be implemented in years 2 & 3.
• Develop regional strategy for the future work development, production, especially towards the Olympics.

PARTNERSHIPS AND INVESTMENTS

• Consolidate partnership commitments and investments with metropolitan organisations and theatre companies. 
• Grow cash and in-kind support from stakeholders.
• Grow further investment to enhance 3-year programming, leveraging partnerships and in-kind support.
• Bring on a Monitoring and Evaluation program to operate over 3 years.
• Build a framework for sustainability/self-reliance beyond 2026.

Contact DARTS Creative Producer, Jessica Lamb for information about upcoming opportunities for regional theatre makers.

Jessica Lamb
M: 0488 104 785
E: jessica.darts@jute.com.au