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Permanent queer arts hub for Adelaide

A permanent “queer arts and cultural hub” to be established in Raj House in the East End will help ensure the ongoing financial viability of South Australia’s Feast Festival, says festival general manager Cassandra Liebeknecht.

Aug 24, 2016, updated Aug 24, 2016
Feast Festival artists with Cassandra Liebeknecht at the announcement about the new hub at Raj House. Photo: Robert Knapman

Feast Festival artists with Cassandra Liebeknecht at the announcement about the new hub at Raj House. Photo: Robert Knapman

It was announced today that the Hyde Street hub – in the location that was used by Tuxedo Cat during the Adelaide Fringe – would be supported by $150,000 from the State Government and an increase in Feast funding from Adelaide City Council for the next three years.

It will provide a year-round space where emerging LGBTIQ artists can create, workshop and present their art.

“This move is very important,” Liebeknecht says.

“It ensures the festival can continue providing for the LGBTIQ community and ensure its financial viability for years to come, and could potentially be the precedent for other LGBTIQ festivals across the nation to follow suit.”

Feast Festival, which last year celebrated its 20th anniversary, is held annually, presenting a two-week showcase of music, comedy and theatre shows, as well s community events, visual art, film and “queer ideas” events.

In a statement, Feast organisers said the new hub at Raj House meant shows and events could be presented all year round, which would “in turn will provide a 12-month income stream for the festival”.

The 2015 Feast was headlined by 2014 Eurovision Song Contest winner Conchita Wurst and was estimated to have generated an economic impact of $9 million.

This year’s festival will run from October 21 until November 6, with the program to be released next week.

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