Growing Impact and Presence
Increasing performances
Sydney Theatre Company: History of Everything Photo: James GreenSince the federal and state commitment to new funding
arrangements in 2000, the AMPAG companies have produced a vibrant,
innovative slate of productions, with the number of Australian works
rising to 231 in 2010 (a 46% increase from 2002). Of particular note are
the symphony orchestras which recorded a 55% increase in the
presentation of Australian works just from 2008 to 2010. The number of
new stage works (opera, theatre, dance and circus) have increased
dramatically in the past decade, with 101 new works on AMPAG company main
stages in 2010.
The number of people attending performances has continued to grow strongly in 2010 (nearly 2.3 million tickets for main stage performances alone - an increase of 236,000 from 2009).
The 28 companies receive wide critical acclaim both nationally and internationally. They are well recognised in the arts industry as evidenced by the peer awards they receive each year such as Helpmann Awards, Green Room Awards, Critics Circle and the Deadlys. Find out more at Award Winning Companies.
Major employer, economic driver
"In the context of the current global recession it is important to acknowledge that the cultural industries are worth approximately $32 billion or 3.5% of Australia’s GDP – which is a handy chunk of change for something intrinsically good for you – and support around 474,000 jobs in 102,000 enterprises." The Hon Peter Garrett AM MP: “A Creative Australia: Why we must harness and embrace the arts” Brisbane, 10 June 2009
More than 3 million Australians experience the work of the AMPAG companies through mainstage performances, national and international touring and digital platforms.
The 28 AMPAG companies provide sustainable employment every year for over 8000 artists (on-stage and backstage) and in the highly skilled management and support functions that make live performance exciting and compelling. In addition, there are many more technical, front of house and support crew employed directly by the venues at which the companies perform. Also, the work that the companies create and perform maintains many specialised crafts that do not have a big market and may otherwise disappear.
Around 5500 volunteers are engaged with the companies on an annual basis because they believe in the power of creative work. The opportunities for volunteering not only benefit the companies but the individuals who obtain invaluable experience in the performing arts industry which can lead to future employment in not only this industry but many others – thus extending creativity across the board.