May 15th, 2026Bendigo’s Arena Theatre Company Turns 60 — and the Community is Celebrating

Australia’s longest-running professional theatre company for young people marks six decades with a fundraising campaign where every dollar is matched.
Arena Theatre Company, Australia’s longest-running professional theatre company for young audiences, is celebrating its 60th year – and inviting the community to be part of its future.
To mark the milestone, Arena hosted a 60th birthday morning tea in Bendigo last month, bringing together friends, supporters and advocates to celebrate six decades of live performance and creative programming for children and young people. The event also marked the launch of Arena’s Plus1 fundraising campaign, a matched giving initiative through Creative Australia.
This initiative means that every dollar donated to Arena before 31 May 2026 is matched dollar-for-dollar through Creative Australia’s Plus1 program up to a target of $50,000. Arena has already raised $33,500 – 67% of its goal – anchored by a lead commitment from the Betty Amsden Foundation.
“Sixty years is extraordinary for any arts organisation, and for one dedicated entirely to young people it’s a true landmark,” said Arena CEO and Executive Producer Debra Allanson. “The Plus1 campaign is our way of inviting the community to invest in the next chapter. With every dollar doubled, the impact of each gift is real and immediate.”
Founded in 1966, Arena creates live performances and creative programs for children and young people across regional Victoria and beyond. Arena’s commitment is to reach young people where they are — in regional communities, schools, and family settings where access to professional creative experiences is often limited.
Arena’s Creativerse festival – launched in 2025 – brought more than 1,500 attendees to Ulumbarra Theatre, establishing a new annual event for young people and families in Bendigo. The 2026 edition is in development.
Donations can be made at wearearena.org.au/support-arena before 31 May 2026.