PASSENGERS boarded an exclusive Helpmann Airlines flight for a sneak peak at exhibitions, shows and festivals “worth the trip” as Country Arts SA launched its 2018 program last week.
Celebrating 25 years, Country Arts SA transformed the Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre stage into an arts aircraft bound for the future, encouraging guests to travel and seek out unique arts experiences across the state next year.
The launch showcased exclusive events which will be held in the Limestone Coast during a milestone year for the organisation.
Country Arts SA chief executive Steve Saffell welcomed around 40 guests and paid tribute to South East artist Robert Miles.
“I would like to take this moment to acknowledge passionate artist and arts lover Robert Miles who sadly passed away recently,” Mr Saffell said.
“Robert was a longstanding key figure in the arts community both here in Mount Gambier and in Penola.
“I’m sure he touched the lives of many people here and he will be missed by all of us.”
Mr Saffell said the 2018 program would mark the beginning of a new era for Country Arts SA.
“For a quarter of a century, Country Arts SA has delivered unique, diverse experiences,” he said.
“In 2018, we will celebrate this massive milestone and look to the future, form new alliances, work more closely with local councils and support artists in regional Australia by nurturing those relationships.
“We will firmly place artists at the core of our work by supporting them to explore local stories and make great art.
“We invite you to take part in the arts and culture on your doorstep and travel for wondrous experiences all over regional SA – we want you to be a tourist in your own state and chase these unique experiences.”
Country Arts SA programs director Anthony Peluso provided the in-flight entertainment, revealing the details of the 2018 program during the journey.
“This will be a year of firsts, with new festivals, new works and very exciting and exclusive events here in the Limestone Coast,” Mr Peluso said.
“We will have a South Australian exclusive at the Sir Robert Helpmann in March with Oedipus Schmoedipus, which takes dozens of the great theatre classics and picks out death scenes with 25 locals on stage.
“With 25 locals on stage, it will be a theatrical extravaganza not to be missed.”
Mr Peluso also highlighted the world premiere of The Spinners at the Sir Robert Helpmann Theatre in July and the Australian String Quartet at the Riddoch Art Gallery in December.
“In 2018, we want everyone to discover or rediscover this beautiful state of ours as we seek out new arts adventures,” he said.
“These shows, exhibitions and festivals are definitely worth the trip.”
