Voices of Tomorrow is a dynamic, community-driven initiative that empowers young people from diverse backgrounds to write, develop, and perform their own stories through musical theatre, poetry and storytelling. This program nurtures creative expression while breaking down barriers to participation, fostering social connection, and amplifying voices that are often unheard. While open to a range ...
HotHouse Theatre
Voices of Tomorrow
GOAL
$38,000
Australia > VIC > Regional
Field of Interest
- Arts and culture
Target Population
- General population
- Asylum seekers, refugees, migrants and people from CALD backgrounds
HotHouse Theatre
HotHouse Theatre is nationally recognised as a regional creative powerhouse, dedicated to the transformative power of theatre in igniting conversations, strengthening community connections, and challenging societal perspectives.
For over 30 years, we have fostered artistic excellence in the Albury-Wodonga region, engaging with diverse communities through innovative community programs and captivating performances. At the heart of our vision is a steadfast commitment to embedding community engagement in everything we do. Initiatives like Voices of Tomorrow exemplify our dedication to cultural inclusivity, storytelling, and community-led artistic expression, ensuring that the rich diversity of our region is celebrated on stage and beyond.
Project Summary
Voices of Tomorrow is a dynamic, community-driven initiative that empowers young people from diverse backgrounds to write, develop, and perform their own stories through musical theatre, poetry and storytelling. This program nurtures creative expression while breaking down barriers to participation, fostering social connection, and amplifying voices that are often unheard.
While open to a range of young people, Voices of Tomorrow will work in close collaboration with STARTTS (Service for the Treatment and Rehabilitation of Torture and Trauma Survivors) to specifically engage young refugee migrants from Congolese, South Sudanese, and Bhutanese communities who have resettled in Albury-Wodonga. Through targeted outreach and culturally responsive workshops, the program will provide a safe, inspiring space for these young people to explore their stories, identities, and creative potential.
Through collaborative workshops and creative mentorship, participants will craft original, authentic stories that celebrate the rich cultural heritage of our growing region. These stories will come to life through music and poetry, culminating in performances that not only showcase their talent but also strengthen social bonds, promote mental well-being, and foster a deeper sense of belonging.
By empowering young people to share their lived experiences on stage, Voices of Tomorrow creates meaningful pathways for self-expression, representation, and community connection – ensuring that the diverse voices of our region are heard, valued, and celebrated.
Project Outcomes
Voices of Tomorrow aspires to create long-term social, artistic, and cultural impact by providing young people with a platform to share their stories and develop creative skills in a supportive, inclusive environment.
Our key objectives are:
- Empowering Young People: Providing opportunities for self-expression, professional development, and language support for English as an Additional Language (EAL) learners.
- Building Social Connection: Encouraging cross-cultural collaboration among young people from diverse backgrounds, fostering new friendships and stronger community ties.
- Strengthening Cultural Identity: Showcasing the lived experiences of migrant, refugee communities, affirming the importance of cultural heritage in storytelling.
- Enhancing Well-being: Using theatre, music, and performance as tools for self-confidence, resilience, and mental health support.
- Developing Regional Arts Infrastructure: Establishing a pathway for young regional artists to pursue further training and professional opportunities.
Measuring Success
We will track the program’s impact through:
- Participation & Engagement: Number and diversity of participants, audience attendance, and retention in future theatre programs.
- Artistic & Professional Growth: Participant feedback on skills, confidence, and continued theatre involvement.
- Community Impact: Testimonials, audience surveys, and feedback from families, cultural groups, and educators.
- Sustainability & Expansion: Formation of new partnerships and the program’s evolution into a large-scale performance in 2026.
A combination of attendance records, surveys, focus groups, and interviews will ensure a comprehensive evaluation of the program’s success.
Budget Breakdown
TOTAL BUDGET: $69,000
FUNDING
| Funding source | Amount |
|---|---|
| Border Trust | $10,000 |
| Foundation for Rural and Regional Renewal | $10,000 |
| HotHouse Theatre | $8,000 |
| Sponsorship | $3,000 |
| Funding Gap | $38,000 |
EXPENSES
| Expense item | Amount |
|---|---|
| Teaching and Artists Wages | $29,003 |
| Travel, Accommodation and Bus Hire | $21,340 |
| Program Delivery Costs (equipment, venue hire, | $16,000 |
| Marketing and Administration | $2,657 |
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