A DANCE-theatre work now setting its sights on a UK season is among seven projects to share more than $54,000 in arts funding.
Council will invest $54,268 through the September 2025 Regional Arts Development Fund (RADF) grant round, supporting projects across dance, visual arts, digital practice and community-based cultural development.
One of the standout recipients is Labyrinth, a site-responsive dance-theatre work by LJ Projects that transforms libraries and bookshops into immersive performance spaces.
First commissioned by council for Horizon Festival 2023, the work drew strong audience acclaim before receiving RADF support in 2024 for further refinements.
In 2025, Labyrinth wowed crowds at Adelaide Fringe and attracted interest from UK producers.
With a second RADF grant now secured, LJ Projects director Melissa Lanham will undertake mentorship with an international touring strategist to position Labyrinth for a future UK season.
Award-winning visual artist Megan Robinson was also successful in the funding round, receiving support to further develop Confinement, an immersive installation exploring the social forces shaping women’s lives.
Recently named Sculptor of the Year at the Sculpture on the Edge art prize, Ms Robinson said the funding would allow her to work with lighting and sound collaborators to deepen audience engagement.
Strong Community Portfolio Councillor David Law said RADF funding supported the ideation, development and progression of local art.
“As we strengthen our creative ecology and cultivate our identity as a place where artists live and create extraordinary work, we move closer to a Sunshine Coast alive with arts, culture and creativity,” Cr Law said.RADF grants are available for arts projects and artist development.
Major projects (up to $15,000) and mentorships (up to $5,000) open twice yearly in March and September, while small grants and professional development funding are offered on a rolling basis.
More information is available on Sunshine Coast Council’s website and via ArtsCoast.