The City of Newcastle’s flagship cultural festival, New Annual, is ushering in 2025 with fresh energy and vision. Under the leadership of newly appointed Festival Director Tory Loudon, preparations are underway for the 10-day celebration, set to run from 26 September to 5 October.
Local and Newcastle-affiliated artists are encouraged to apply for up to $40,000 in funding to showcase their work during the festival. Expressions of interest are open until Friday 21 February for creators working across visual arts, dance, theatre, music, multimedia, and interdisciplinary art forms, promising an eclectic and vibrant program for the community.
“Made New provided a fantastic opportunity to elevate the work of Newcastle’s thriving creative community,” Tory said.
“One of the most important things any arts and culture festival can do is celebrate and in some cases introduce emerging and established local artists within the communities where they live and work,” Tory said.
“Not only does it showcase the ability, creativity and diversity of local talent right here in Newcastle, it helps to foster audience development by generating a sense of ownership amongst the local community.”
“Supporting local talent has been one of the real strengths of New Annual since it was established by City of Newcastle in 2021 and I look forward to continuing that tradition.”
Tory joins New Annual on the back of an impressive 20-year career in the arts, media, and creative industries, including senior roles at leading institutions including Sydney Opera House, Vivid Sydney, Carriageworks, Creative Australia, The Guardian, Bangarra Dance Theatre, Australian Dance Theatre, and most recently as the Head of Public Programs and Engagement at the Sydney Theatre Company.
Executive Director of Creative and Community Services Alissa Jones said she was looking forward to working with Ms Loudon on City of Newcastle’s flagship cultural event.
“Outgoing Festival Director Adrian Burnett has grown New Annual’s program and position on the national festival circuit, and we thank him for his passion and dedication,” Alissa said.
“However, we’re thrilled to be welcoming Ms Loudon to City of Newcastle. She has an exceptional track record of leading and creating distinct and engaging arts, entertainment, education, and community engagement programs.”
“I am excited about what she and the rest of the team have in store for us when New Annual returns to the city in September and also look forward to seeing the performances and experiences produced under the next round of Made New funding, which will form part of the wider programming of local performers.”
IMAGE | Tory Loudon
