Performers coming to a street near you

Recent changes to street performance permits on the Sunshine Coast mean you will soon be enjoying local entertainers from Kenilworth to Currimundi Lake.

Applications are now open for the Sunshine Coast Council’s 2009/10 round of street performance permits and new sites have been approved in Kenilworth, Buderim, Caloundra, Kings Beach and Currimundi. Some locations, including Maleny, have been expanded to include entire streets.

Sunshine Coast Council, in consultation with local street artists, conducted a review of street performance on the Coast, and came up with ways to increase vibrant, diverse and affordable entertainment in local communities.

New guidelines mean council will now approve group and roving acts, visiting artists, pavement artists and performers who use fire in circus and juggling acts – a move that promises to add an exciting theatrical element to Coast streets.

Council has expanded the number of permits from 50 in 2008/09 to 60 this year. These 60 places are covered by council’s public liability policy. Buskers and performers with their own insurance cover can apply for a permit, but all performers operating in the region must hold a current permit issued by council.

The permit application fee for the period 1 July 2009 to 30 June 2010 is $40, and if the artist is under 18 years of age or applying on behalf of a non-profit organisation, it is $20.

The new application process, site details and application forms are all available on council’s website www.sunshinecoast.qld.gov.au or by calling 5475 7272.