Ignite! program fuels new work and creative skills for Ballarat artists

Ballarat-based writers and performers are being supported to develop new work and build on their creative skills through Ignite!, an exciting new performing arts development program delivered by The Rat Lab with support from the City of Ballarat.

Running through to August 2026, Ignite! offers a layered program of workshops and creative development programs designed to strengthen artistic practice and support the creation of new local work. 

The overall program focuses on experimentation, skill building, and local storytelling with artists provided with training, space, dramaturgical support (the art or theory of composition, structure, and staging in theatre), and seed funding. 

City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said the Ignite! program demonstrates Council’s ongoing commitment to supporting the local creative sector.

“Our city has a highly skilled performing arts community, and this program provides valuable opportunities for local artists to test ideas and strengthen their practice,” she said. 

“Supporting programs like this aligns with Ballarat’s identity as a UNESCO City of Crafts and Folk Art and our commitment to a thriving creative ecosystem.”

Emma Hall, President of The Rat Lab said there’s a vibrant and eclectic mix of artists within Ballarat’s performance community who are aching to have opportunities to share and develop their work.

“The Ignite! program provides opportunities for these artists to come together for skill building, creative development, and presentation of new, local stories for Ballarat audiences, and beyond,” she said.

“The Rat Lab is here to support and foster all local voices, and Ballarat audiences who are looking for innovative, exciting, contemporary theatre. We love new ideas, experimentation and risk-taking.”

Professional development is a key component of Ignite!, with two intensive public workshops led by respected industry practitioners taking place in February. 

On Saturday 21 February, voice practitioner and educator Sharon Turley from Federation University’s Art Academy will lead Finding Your Voice, a full day workshop exploring how the speaking voice functions, its relationship to breath and the nervous system, how to communicate intentions clearly, and develop healthy vocal technique.

The workshop is suitable for performers, public speakers, and anyone wanting more confidence in their voice. 

The following day, on Sunday 22 February, celebrated playwright and literary director Jane Harrison will lead a dramaturgy workshop focused on big picture thinking for playwrights and theatre makers. Participants will work through key questions that support the structure and intention of a script. 

Participants are encouraged to bring a work in progress and will work in a supportive environment suitable for practitioners at any stage of their career. 

Alongside these workshops, Ignite! supports the development of new work through two creative development pathways. PilotLight provides early stage live performance projects with dedicated development time, dramaturgical guidance, and a public sharing opportunity for emerging and mid-career practitioners.

SpotLight supports one major work in progress by experienced artists with a well-developed concept or draft script, culminating in a public outcome in July-August 2026. 

Workshops are paid ticketed events, with placements in the development programs selected through an application process. 

For more information on the program, please visit the Creative Ballarat website.