The Live Performance Support Scheme, a government initiative to assist the live entertainment sector during Covid 19 has opened for applications – and those eligible from Laois are being urged to apply.
The scheme is aimed at live performances that will occur on or before September 30 next.
Awards will range from €10,000 upwards and can be applied for by commercial venues, producers and promotors working in music, entertainment and theatre.
Laois Fine Gael TD Thomasina Connell says the scheme will help venues, promotors, and producers plan events and assist them to employ artists, musicians, performers, technicians and other support staff.
She said: “This scheme will provide great support to those involved in the live music sector, and the wider Arts Community in Laois.
“A previous similar scheme piloted a number of months ago provided a huge amount of employment to hundreds of musicians, actors, crew and technicians when no other opportunities were available.
“I am confident that the scheme will benefit our local musicians and performers in County Laois hugely.
“It is essential that we bolster the Arts Community as we pass the one year mark of living through this pandemic.
“We need to support the continued production of high quality artistic output in our County and that is what this scheme aims to do.
“The scheme is aimed at commercial venues, producers and promoters in the live entertainment sector.
“The benefits of the scheme will filter down by assisting promoters and venues to employ artists, musicians, performers, technicians and other support staff in live performances.”
Application forms, guidance on the application process and further information can be found on the Department’s website here. The closing date for applications is April 14 at 1pm.
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