Live performance – theatre, circus, contemporary dance, classical ballet, concerts, opera, musicals and comedy – creates a rich and vibrant cultural life for all Australians.
Involvement in the performing arts, on or off the stage, inspires creativity and fosters excellence. It cultivates our future leaders.
The Australian Major Performing Arts Group or AMPAG as its often called, is the umbrella group for Australia’s 28 major performing arts companies who inspire millions in schools and theatres across the country and the world. The companies have a commitment to the achievement and maintenance of excellence in performance, and to engaging in new and creative ways of entertaining and inspiring people.
We work to ensure that the brilliance of these companies is adequately supported by the government – Federal, state and local – and accessible to all Australians.
On this site you’ll find out information about AMPAG members, a calendar which lists their opening nights (sign up to the email alerts!), current issues that we are working on, some information on arts funding and also what you can do to advocate for the arts. You can also Play Your Part in the Arts by registering with the We All Play a Part campaign to celebrate Australian creativity.
NEWS
Under its high-profile leadership team, the Sydney Theatre Company has introduced a string of green initiatives. Those efforts have now been officially recognised. read more
Chairman of the Melbourne Theatre Company’s Board, Derek Young today announced that after more than 10 years at the helm of one of the most successful theatre companies in Australia, MTC Artistic Director and Chief Executive Simon Phillips would leave his roles with MTC read more
The Helpmann Award nominations have now been announced with AMPAG companies scooping the pool to receive 58% of all nominations in eligible categories. read more
WA arts companies have been securing more sponsorship funds and donations despite the financial downturn as escalating production costs outstrip government funding. read more
A recent survey suggests Australians were still willing to dig into their pockets to support the arts during the economic downturn. Carrie Fellner reports. read more