In late March Performing Lines Tasmania is thrilled to celebrate its 20th birthday, marking two decades of championing the extensive and formidable talent of Tasmanian artists and arts companies.
Since its establishment, PL Tas has played a pivotal role in nurturing, developing, producing, and promoting the performing arts across the state and beyond, making a lasting impact in the careers of countless artists and arts organizations.
Senior producer and founder of Tasmania Performs (PL Tas’s original name) Annette Downs led the organisation from 2006 – 2023 and was integral in elevating the voices of Tasmanian artists. Reflecting on the role of the organisation she says, “Supporting artists was never just about producing work; it was about amplifying Tasmanian voices and stories that too often went unheard, and helping those perspectives travel far beyond where they began. At its core, Performing Lines acted as a connector, bringing together communities, audiences and opportunities so Tasmanian artists could move forward in their careers with confidence, knowing their stories mattered and had real power.”
Annette’s belief in the strength of Tasmanian artists was at the heart of Performing Lines’ mission.
“The remarkable success of so many artists who have come through our programs speaks volumes about the depth of talent on the island. It was always there. What they needed was the right support at the right time, collaborators who believed in them, and genuine pathways into the wider industry to truly thrive.”
From strategic support at critical career moments, to mentorships, creative pathways and partnerships like the Theatre Royal’s RAWspace and the MAC Residency, and fostering community through the statewide annual Sector Day, the PL Tas team has been dedicated to helping artists realise their potential. They take pride in representing Tasmanian performing arts and have built strong relationships with venues and festivals locally, nationally and internationally to grow audiences for artists and companies.
Over the past 20 years, the organisation has supported the creative journeys of countless artists including Nathan Maynard, Nicholas Tolputt & Amanda Caletti, Keia McGrady, Nunami Sculthorpe-Green, Nicola Ingram, Janice Ross and Tom Holloway.
Productions include Nathan Maynard’s major festival hits The Season and Hide the Dog, dance work Charcoal, and Tom Holloway’s Beyond the Neck—which will be returning to the Peacock Theatre for its 20th anniversary later this year.
The exceptional Regional Artist Residency program that started over 14 years ago has now expanded nationally, providing artists across the country with access to mentors, programmers, networks and resources in their local areas.
In late March 2026 Performing Lines is holding their annual Sector Day followed by a tour of an art exhibition that marks 20 years of growth and success. The exhibition will highlight some of the acclaimed works produced by the organisation over the last two decades and will be open for the public to visit until the end of April at the Moonah Arts Centre.
Current Senior producer at Performing Lines Tasmania and respected artist Sinsa Mansell is excited about the 20th anniversary and the future of the organisation.
“Celebrating 20 years of Performing Lines Tas is both humbling and inspiring. It’s a testament to the artists, communities and bold ideas that have shaped our journey. Twenty years clearly reflects the deep commitment we feel for supporting our colleagues and partners across the sector and to the endless creative possibility in Lutruwita. I’m proud to be part of this moment and excited to honour this legacy while looking ahead to what’s possible in the years to come.”
Many artists have benefitted from their partnerships with PL Tas. One of the earliest collaborators is award-winning writer Tom Holloway who speaks about the impact the organisation had on his, and many other artists’ careers.
“I’m not just indebted to Performing Lines Tasmania because of the deep support I have personally received from them – including producing the world premiere of the play that enabled my entire career – it’s the work I see them do for all performing artists in Tasmania. They nurture new voices and sustain established artists. They work across the state, across platforms, and find talented creatives from all walks of life. They are the beating heart of the Tasmanian industry, giving and sustaining… Where would we be without them?”
Award-winning writer, actor and director, Trawlwoolway man, Nathan Maynard said succinctly,
“Without Performing Lines I haven’t written a play, I haven’t directed a play, and I haven’t even put one sheep’s head in a jar. Not one. Nathan Maynard the artist doesn’t exist without the investment of PL. It’s as simple as that.”
And the final word goes to current Executive Producer and CEO of Performing Lines, Simon Wellington.
“As a proud Tasmanian who came up through the local industry long before joining Performing Lines, I’ve seen firsthand just how deeply this organisation supports artists and communities. Their commitment has shaped careers, created opportunities that otherwise wouldn’t exist, and helped Tasmanian stories reach far beyond the island. It’s a privilege now to be part of an organisation whose impact I’ve experienced from both sides.”
Tasmanian artists continue to demonstrate bold and resilient creativity and Performing Lines Tas is excited to be entering the next chapter exploring brave new ideas, nurturing emerging voices, and sharing distinctive Tasmanian stories with the world.
- To see the showcase of images from the exhibition at Moonah Arts Centre CLICK HERE
- To learn more about Sector Day CLICK HERE
