Technology taking the arts to regional communities

Opera Queensland is taking the arts to regional Australia, delivering opera to classrooms across Queensland using interactive technology.

Patrick Nolan, CEO and Artistic Director of Opera Queensland, launched a new program made possible by a partnership with Cisco and Data#3.

“Opera Queensland’s mission is to bring communities together through stories and song,” Nolan said.

“Queensland is our stage and this collaboration between three companies devoted to excellence enables us to deliver on our commitment to take music and storytelling to the most remote communities across all of Queensland.

“This is a very exciting opportunity combining a traditional art form with the very best of modern innovation. Through Data#3 and Cisco’s engineering expertise and continued technical support, we will be able to deliver more inclusive and diverse opera experiences,” he said.

Minister for the Arts Leeanne Enoch said Opera Queensland is leading the way in demonstrating how the harnessing of digital tools can enhance community engagement with high-quality arts and deliver positive social, cultural and education outcomes.

“This new partnership, piloted here in Longreach, will provide Queensland’s regional communities with high-quality connectivity and arts experiences to enhance young Queenslanders’ access to the work of our state opera company,” Enoch said.

“The Queensland Government is committed to ensuring that communities and schools across Queensland can access exceptional arts and cultural experiences no matter where they live and learn.

“The global stage of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games will present a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase the state’s world-class arts and cultural talent and experiences and innovative digital arts engagement activities like those being launched today.”

Image credit: iStock.com/swissmediavision