Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media, Catherine Martin TD, has announced details of live events to be staged using the €5m in funding she has allocated to local authorities for the 2022 Local Live Performance Support Scheme (LLPSS).
The scheme aims to help underpin the recovery of the live performance sector at a local level by assisting local authorities to fund live performance events that engage the services of local artists, musicians, technicians, producers and other professional practitioners.
Minister Martin said about the Local Live Performance Support Scheme, “I have seen how valuable the 2021 LLPPS was for many communities across the country during the pandemic and I believe that the continued support will re-energise the local live performance industry across Ireland and ensure that artists and crew can thrive now that restrictions are behind us.”
The 2021 LLPSS supported over 350 events across every county in Ireland. Events from Christmas markets and pantomimes, to cabaret shows and choirs, and even a Santa experience in a mine took place – the variety and creativity displayed was noteworthy. The funding supported over 10,000 days of employment for those working in the live performance sector.
Minister Martin said, “the last two years have been a time of great upheaval for the entire country. The LLPSS scheme was very successful in providing employment opportunities for local performers and crews in every county, showcasing so much local talent.”
Whether the events took place indoors, online or out in the open air, the feedback received has been overwhelmingly positive.
“It feels so good to be back on stage after almost two years. There’s nothing better than that feeling.” – Cork City Council
“It’s fantastic to see the city coming back to life.” – Galway City Council
“The musicians really appreciated the work, it was magic” – Cavan County Council
3472 individual artists and performers benefitted from this scheme delivered by Minister Martin’s Department last year, which also boosted footfall and spending in local towns and villages. Minister Martin plans to build on this success by allocating €5m to the 2022 LLPPS for events running from now until the end of June. All Local Authorities are now planning to enrich every county with exciting events in the months ahead.
Look out for the hashtags #LocalLive to find events made possible by the LLPPS in your area.
