Horizon Power partnership brings live theatre to regions including Exmouth

A two-year partnership between a theatre company and a regional energy provider will allow productions to be seen in regional parts of the State, including the Gascoyne.

Horizon Power has contributed $100,000 towards Barking Gecko Arts to deliver theatre productions and creative learning programs for children across regional WA, including Exmouth, Karratha, and Esperance in the State’s south.

Barking Gecko’s touring program aimed to reach over 2000 children, and employ 25 regional artists and workers within these communities.

Chief executive Ryan Taaffe said live productions were an important way for children to learn.

“When children experience live theatre, it fosters creativity and empathy, improves emotional intelligence and brings bucketloads of joy,” he said.

“Thanks to Horizon Power’s support, we can bring these transformative experiences directly to regional communities.”

Later this year, Reasons to Stay Inside, will head to Exmouth and Karratha.

The production, aimed at primary school students in Years 3 to 6, explores themes of friendship, anxiety and the importance of mental health and resilience.

The story depicts a boy whose anxiety threatens to overcome him, building a pillow fort and refusing to leave while his best friend tries to get him out.

The funding was the latest in Horizon Power’s Community Partnerships Program, which through the WA Government provides $1.1 million each financial year to positively impact remote and regional communities.

Horizon Power chief executive Stephanie Unwin said bringing opportunities like this to the regions was important.

“It’s fantastic that Barking Gecko can continue to expand their program across regional WA, so that more students have the chance to experience the excitement of their live theatre shows,” she said.

“We are proud to support this initiative and work together to bring the arts to an ever-increasing audience across the regions.”