The Australian Ballet is coming to Penrith for a mesmerising outdoor performance, and it’s going to be free.
Penrith Council will partner with the Australian Ballet in November to bring their annual Under the Stars performance to the Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC).
With over 100 dance schools in the area already, Councillor Bernard Bratusa said the performance will bring something very special to Penrith.
“It is a great investment and a great initiative. We will get exposure everywhere and will be the first regional city outside a capital city to host Under the Stars,” he said.
“One of the priorities for Penrith Council is to promote arts and culture and I believe this ticks that box.”
The annual event was held in Brisbane last year, and attracted over 8000 people to the area and reached an audience of over 2.7 million people.
The opportunity for Penrith to host the event is expected to cement the region’s reputation as a leader in tourism and events, in line with Council’s Adventure Capital campaign.
Deputy Mayor Ross Fowler said as well as being a sporting city, Penrith is a city of culture, and this will show Australia the New West.
“The New West means something that’s different all the time. This is something that will be different and it will enhance Penrith’s marketability,” he said.
The free event will cost Council and the SIRC around $60,000 that will be provided in both cash and in-kind contributions.
The Sydney International Regatta Centre is recommended to provide the venue at a reduced cost, and Council has secured a $25,000 sponsorship from JK Williams.
Matt Adamson, Administration and Marketing Coordinator from the NSW Office of Sport, said the SIRC would be the perfect venue for the performance.
“If SIRC was selected as the venue it would certainly showcase the diversity and scope of events that can be held at the venue,” he said.
“There is a lot going for SIRC and events of this type, we have capacity for large scale events, easy access for coach transfers, ample parking and a beautiful setting overlooking the Blue Mountains and the Lakes.”
