Darebin Arts Speakeasy's 2025 Presentation Applications
Applications are now open to present performance-based works for Darebin Arts Centre or Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre in partnership with Darebin Arts Speakeasy.
For over 10 years, Darebin Arts has played an integral role in Australia’s arts landscape as a hub for performing artists to develop and present innovative new works of theatre, dance, circus and live art. The Darebin Arts Speakeasy program partners with artists and organisations to generate thrilling artistic presentations for audiences across our venues: Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre and Darebin Arts Centre.
The Speakeasy program is not guided by theme but looks to artists for their ability to make innovative, entertaining and engaging live performances that speak the questions of our time.
Works are selected by application for their creative merit, viability for presentation, and their potential impact on both audiences and art form, as well as impact on the broader Darebin community.
We value work that can demonstrate an empathy with our Programming Priorities, which include:
- Original and compelling contributions to a cultural conversation
- First Nations-led work
- Addressing the climate emergency
- Access for all
Through the support of our independent curatorial panel, the program champions artists who push these conversations forward and show us something new.
There are four slots available for presentation seasons from July to November 2025.
All artists and companies are encouraged to apply. You do not have to be a Darebin resident.
Read our Guidelines(PDF, 7MB) for more information about the application process.
An information session will be held online on Tuesday 30 July from 6-7pm. If you would like to attend please RSVP here or email april.erskine@darebin.vic.gov.au. This session will be recorded and made available from the Darebin Arts website the following day until applications close.
Applications must be submitted via the SmartyGrants platform. If an online form application is a significant barrier to you, please email beau.mccafferty@darebin.vic.gov.au to discuss your idea.
Image: Future Proof by Gravity Dolls; Photo by Darren Gill (2024)