2026 Darebin Arts Speakeasy Development Program Applications Open

Applications are now open to develop and test new performance-based works at either Darebin Arts Centre or Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre in 2026.

Since 2013, Darebin City Council’s award-winning year-round independent arts program has become an influential hub for performing artists to develop and test new work without the pressure of production and connect with a community of practice. Successful applicants receive a cash stipend and up to 2 weeks of in-kind room hire in one of our venues: Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre or Darebin Arts Centre. 

Available spaces at Darebin Arts Centre and Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre include: 

• Northcote Town Hall Arts Centre – West Wing Studio and Meeting Rooms 
• Darebin Arts Centre - Studio 

Read our Guidelines(PDF, 16MB) for more information about the program and application process. 

An online information session will be held at 12.30pm on Tuesday 7 October 2025. If you would like to attend please RSVP HERE or email stella.charls@ darebin.vic.gov.au. The online session will be recorded and be made available on the Darebin Arts website from 9 October until applications close.

All Victorian-based artists and companies are encouraged to apply (though your collaborators may be based elsewhere), you do not have to be a Darebin resident. 

Applications must be submitted via the SmartyGrants platform. If an online application form is a significant barrier to you, please email stella.charls@darebin.vic.gov.au, mark.pritchard@darebin.vic.gov.au or beau.mccafferty@darebin.vic.gov.au to discuss your idea. 

APPLY NOW

Image credit: Animal Farm by Bloomshed (2023); image by Sarah Walker