Merrigong Theatre Company is thrilled to welcome choreographer, performer, and all round independent artist Bonnie Curtis to our team as part of the Createability Internship Program. The Createability Internship Program is a partnership between Create NSW and Accessible Arts and arts organisations to develop strong career pathways for people with disability. This program provides customised training for participants with a disability or who are d/Deaf, followed by a paid internship.
Bonnie comes to Merrigong having worked in live performance, film and installation, and as the founder and Artistic Director of her dance company Bonnie Curtis Projects.
Bonnie was inspired to apply for The Createability Internship Program after the pandemic highlighted the precarious nature of being a freelance artist without a regular income, sick days and leave entitlements.
“It has given me time to reflect upon my artistic and creative goals. I’ve realised what’s important to me is becoming a leader and advocate for regional artists with disability, having a strong practice as a dance artist, having financial stability, and success for my dance company. I could see the potential for learning, growing, connecting and creating future opportunities.” explains Bonnie
Bonnie decided to join the Artistic and Development team at Merrigong and focus her internship around producing. “I’d like to develop my skills in grant writing, budgets, marketing, production management, tour development, and the things I need to have a long-term career in the performing arts.”
So far Bonnie has been enjoying the opportunity to meet new people and learn from an incredible team; “I’ve really enjoyed meeting with artists, learning about the work they’re creating and being part of the behind the scenes action of bringing their work to life. I’m also very excited about producing the June edition of Made From Scratch”.
Bonnie plans to utilise her experience at Merrigong to build up her dance company with the long-term goal to become an internationally renowned company. With ongoing funding, she can provide permanent employment to dancers to create and perform works that have a high level of artistic excellence in both Australia and overseas.
“The knowledge, relationships and experience I create during my internship at Merrigong will help me reach my long-term goals”.
Please join us in welcoming Bonnie!