Showcase projects ready for lift-off at Geelong Arts Centre

Step into a world where creativity knows no bounds! Geelong Arts Centre is thrilled to unveil the dynamic lineup for its inaugural Launchpad initiative, igniting The Open House stage from June 22 onwards.

Prepare to be mesmerized as three local visionaries take center stage, pushing the boundaries of immersive theatre, acrobatic storytelling, and darkly comedic screenwriting. From the enchanting Cabaret of Calm by Helen Duncan to the daring feats of GO/NO GO Circus with GO/NO GO, and the mind-bending journey of Psyched by Serah Nathan, each project promises an unforgettable experience.

This groundbreaking series isn’t just about entertainment—it’s a platform for artistic experimentation and audience engagement. By providing a professional theatre setting, Launchpad empowers artists to refine their craft and captivate audiences like never before.

At the heart of Launchpad is Creative Engine, driving innovation and fostering local talent. Our mission? To bridge the gap between creation and presentation, offering artists the support they need to thrive. But we can’t do it alone. We call upon arts enthusiasts and the vibrant Geelong community to champion these emerging artists, ensuring the evolution of each project into a masterpiece that enriches our cultural landscape.

We understand the financial challenges artists face, which is why Launchpad is designed to mitigate these risks. By providing a professional theatre setting and support, we ensure that artists can focus on their creativity and audience engagement without the burden of financial constraints.

It’s an exciting time for the arts in Geelong, and we can’t wait to see the innovative works that will emerge from this program.

Penny McCabe – Head of Programming

Saturday 22 June, 4:00pm & 7:00pm

Cabaret of Calm is an interactive work, transforming the theatre space into an inviting, calm and unique wellness space. Audiences are encouraged to join the quest for self-improvement through a unique and immersive performance that will leave the mind calm, heart full and your smile wide.

Wednesday 26 June, 7:00pm

GO/NO GO fuses circus and theatre to dynamically reimagine the lives of the First Lady Astronaut Trainees – thirteen barrier-breaking women who in 1961 committed themselves to passing the same tests as the famed Mercury 7 astronauts. GO/NO GO is high-energy circus-theatre, for lovers of adventure, space, science, and any woman who has ever wanted to go to the moon. Welcome to the space race.

Friday 28 June, 7:00pm

An insightful glimpse into the development of Serah Nathan’s darkly comedic TV script, Pysched. This immersive story follows the life of heartbroken Alina, who resorts to admitting herself to a psychiatric hospital in a misguided attempt to win back her ex. Alina’s calculated scheme is turned upside down when she’s confronted by patients grappling with far weightier problems than her own.

Don’t miss your chance to witness the birth of something extraordinary. Secure your tickets now and be part of the creative revolution.

Stay tuned for more artist opportunities and exciting updates from Creative Engine by visiting http://bit.ly/42CyvkP and signing up for our e-newsletters.

And for aspiring artists, seize the opportunity to join Geelong Arts Centre’s Creative Engine Associate Artists program. Applications are open now at geelongartscentre.org.au/creative-engine/.

Geelong Arts Centre’s Creative Engine is made possible thanks to the generous support of The Ian Potter Foundation and the Victorian Government through Creative Victoria, alongside Major Artistic Partner Deakin University and Innovation Partner Costa Asset Management. Together, we’re shaping the future of the arts in Geelong and beyond.