Each month the Bathurst Arts Council awards the 2BS Youth Arts Award to someone aged 12-24 who has excelled not just in the arts but in contributing to the community. See performances by winners Saturday, 3pm at BMEC. An overall Family First Credit Union Annual Youth Arts Award will be presented on Australia Day 2009. If you know a worthy candidate for the 2009 awards grab a nomination form below.
OPEN LETTER of CONGRATULATION
The opening of Bathurst Memorial Entertainment Centre in March 1999 was a time of great celebration...
Since then,the success of BMEC has exceeded the most optimistic expectations of the Bathurst community. The recent presentation to BMEC General Manager, Stephen Champion,of the inaugural Drover Award for Best Presenter (Best Venue) was an overwhelming accolade from within the industry. Producers and presenters from touring companies throughout Australia considered every aspect of the daily operations of venues they had nominated for the award, before announcing BMEC as the winner.
Stephen Champion, bringing exceptional skills to the role of General Manager, and supported by dedicated staff, has worked indefatigably since his appointment in 2003 to improve both the venue, and its entertainment and broader programs. Bathurst now enjoys productions of the widest variety and highest quality which target all age groups. Many of these shows would be unaffordable were it not for the outstanding local business sponsorship they receive, and support from Bathurst Regional Council. Additionally,Bathurst Regional Council allows Bathurst Youth Theatre regular use of the venue without charge.
In 2005, BMEC initiated the Catapult Festival, a performance showcase for youth circus skills and physical theatre, and now of national significance. It is planned to extend the focus of the 2009 Catapult Festival to embrace all aspects of building and maintaining a youth circus or physical theatre group.
In 2006, BMEC was the second arts centre chosen, after Illawarra Performing Arts Centre, to participate in Local Stages, a Performing Arts Development Program introduced by federal,state and local government to support the growth of regional theatre making. It offers local performing artists creative advice, support, and development opportunities,and engages proffessional- outside artists to help develop strengths within the community's local talent. From Local Stages has come Cabaret Kite, BMEC's regular cabaret,which showcases local talent, and plays to sold-out houses. It has been described as "the best night out, for the price, in the world"! The Local Stages program, which continues to expand, is supported by Australia Council for the Arts, Arts NSW, and Bathurst Regional Council.
Bathurst Arts Council hasalways had a close association with BMEC,and supports a Friends of BMEC sub-committee. In 1998,with money from its Theatre Trust Fund, it commissioned two site- specific works by local artists for the foyers of BMEC: "Let's Fly a Kite" by Paddy Robinson & Wal Murray, and "Wattle" by Martin Coyte. These were presented to BMEC at the official opening of the complex.
Bathurst Arts Council was founded in 1986 specifically to ensure that a modern live theatre would be built for Bathurst. After several attempts to proceed with plans for a theatre were abandoned, the Arts Council approached the then Mayor, Peta Gurdon-O'Meara, asking for Council support. The reception we were given was very encouraging, and the establishment of a Theatre Steering Committee ,(as a sub-committee of Council), was suggested.
This was soon implemented,with representatives from Bathurst City Council, Bathurst Arts Council, local theatrical societies and the general public. A feasibility study followed, which led to the planning and building of BMEC, fully funded by Bathurst City Council. It launched its first theatre season four years later.
Members of Bathurst Arts Council would like to congratulate Stephen Champion and his remarkable team on winning the prestigious Drover Award, and to thank them for their hard work and creativity in making BMEC the best Performing Arts Centre in Australia. By Judy Rutherford
Don't forget to nominate a local young person for their amazing contribution to the Arts, via the Radio 2BS Youth Arts Award! Recipients of the monthly award are automatically in with a chance to win the $500.00 Faily First Credit Union Annual Youth Arts Award, presented on Australia Day each year. Download the nomination form below.
Have a look at photos, images and digital photography from artists and events in and around Bathurst on our 'gallery' page. Submit your images by emailing us!
Check out whats happening in Bathurst in the 'news' section and support our vibrant regional arts community, by attending an event, gallery opening, exhibition, concert or by sending us an email with your artist listing for the 'artists' page! We welcome all Bathurst-based artists & arts workers to let us know whats happening, send your news, stories or contact details to info@bathurstartscouncil.org.au and get involved in the cutural life of the region.
DONT FORGET TO RENEW YOUR BAC MEMBERSHIP
Download your BAC Membership form here and send to PO Box 414, Bathurst NSW 2795 with membership fee
