Under the first round of the Live Performance Support Scheme, the Gleneagle INEC Arena was granted €400,000 to use in the employment of performers, artists, technicians and creative and performance support staff across the live performance sector. The 12 performances provided a total of 1,590 days of work with over 300 people employed and that included a mixture of artists, technical crew and support staff. (Photo: Valerie O'Sullivan)

The Live Performance Support Scheme 2021 is now open for applications. Supporting the live entertainment sector, this enhanced scheme to the value of €25M, will provide significant job opportunities, with thousands of musicians, performers, crew and support staff set to benefit.

It builds on the very successful outcomes of the previous pilot scheme which recently provided thousands of days of employment to hundreds of musicians, actors, crew and technicians when no other opportunities were available.

It will also support the continued production of high quality artistic output, as was demonstrated during the pilot phase of this scheme. Awards will range from €10k upwards.

Key features of the Live Performance Support Scheme include:

  • Support live performances that will occur on or before 30th September 2021
  • Support the creation of employment and wellbeing opportunities in the culture and creative industries and the generation of high quality artistic output
  • The scheme is aimed at commercial venues, producers and promoters in the live entertainment sector (e.g. music, entertainment and theatre).

Applications are now invited – application forms, guidance on the application process and further information can be found at https://www.gov.ie/en/service/ca5d7-live-performance-support-scheme-2021/.

The closing date for applications is 14th April 2021 at 1pm.