Darwin Entertainment Centre 2021-22 Annual Report

Annual Report

Vision / Purpose / Values

VISION

Lead artistic endeavours unique to the region and play a central role in enriching the social and cultural life of Darwin, the Northern Territory and beyond.

PURPOSE

To maintain and develop the Centre as a premier vibrant performing arts venue that provides diverse and innovative live entertainment and events.

VALUES

Safety is engrained in everything we do.

Supportive we encourage and embrace our people, clients, artists, and the community.

Unified we act as one to seek the best outcomes for our business.

Genuine we will be accountable, committed, honest, respectful, and compassionate.

Innovative we are solutions-focused, adaptable, bold, and seek opportunities.

Collaborators we provide value, are reliable and operate transparently and inclusively.

Darwin Entertainment Centre acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of the lands on which we live and work. We pay our respects to Larrakia Elders past, present and future, and to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.

Partners

Sponsors

and Dance, Contemporary Music, Film, Family, Theatre, Comedy, Visual Arts, Classical Music, Cabaret, Circus, Musicals, Opera, Conference/ Exhibition, Words/Ideas.

Message from the Chair

This last financial year 2021-22 has been a success for DEC, despite the ongoing impact of the pandemic and all the necessary public health measures associated with its management. While some shows were cancelled, there were many that were not and were warmly welcomed and supported by our audiences.

That so many shows made it to our stage is a real tribute to General Manager Mike Harris and his resilient team. The DEC Board is only too aware of the effort and commitment it took from all staff to achieve that result. Our sincere thanks and congratulations.

And there were some great shows: Dead Puppet Society’s The Wider Earth; The Pulse from Adelaide’s Gravity and Other Myths; Victorian State Ballet; and the irrepressible Wiggles – just to mention a few.

So, success for DEC has had two key elements this financial year. The first to continue operations and present the number of shows that we did. The second to survive financially and as outlined in our 2021-22 Financials we did that as well. A great result.

An important task for both board and staff over the year has been the review of our current Strategic Plan and work on our new strategy for the next four years. At this stage, 2023-26 is still a work in progress, but key areas of focus are around how to maintain and expand our Entertainment Centre as the premiere arts venue in Darwin: bringing the best of national and international shows to town; strongly supporting our local arts community; growing and diversifying our audiences; and creatively expanding our revenue sources.

To the Northern Territory Government and the City of Darwin, thank you for your continued and vital support. It underpins our success. But there are immediate and long-term capital issues that need to be addressed and which we’ve discussed with both Council and Government over the past year. DEC and the Darwin Amphitheatre will greatly benefit from further investment and allow us to expand the offerings we can bring to the people of Darwin and the Top End. Our advocacy around that investment will continue this financial year.

And finally, my thanks to my fellow directors over this past challenging year for your committed and careful governance of the wonderful Darwin Entertainment Centre.

CLARE MARTIN AO Chair

I’m pleased to be presenting my first Annual Report as Chair of Darwin Entertainment Centre (DEC).

Message from the General Manager

In the red corner we have the first seven or eight months of the year where the impact of Delta and Omicron strains of Covid and their associated lockdowns and border closures ripped a hole through DEC’s activities; and, in the blue corner we have the remainder of the year where we sought to recover to a balanced position through rescheduled events and operational efficiencies. The blue corner won on a tight points decision.

The cancellation and postponement of shows, especially those from interstate, coupled with lower sales and attendances at many events had a massive impact on DEC this year. The visible impact was loss of revenue but the impact on staff of seeing many shows that they had worked so hard to secure fall away – sometimes on the day of the event – was enormous. That we recovered to the position we did is testament to the hard work and dedication of the team at DEC.

This said, we laughed loudly at Aunty Donna and Urzila Carlson, were astonished at the deathdefying performances of Gravity and OtherMyths’ The Pulse (part of Darwin Festival), cheered ourselves hoarse at Baker Boy and Bjorn Again, and were very excited to see the OG Wiggles dust off their instruments and grace our stage.

DEC finished 2021-22 with a cash trading position of $31,774 in surplus and when non-cash items such as depreciation are taken into account the overall deficit position was $210,629. Whilst a deficit is never a preferred

position, the priority for 2021-22, once we understood the extent of what was happening in terms of event cancellations and audience uncertainty, was to protect existing levels of equity and trade to a cash breakeven or better position. To achieve this result is testament to the efforts of all DEC staff to ensure efficiencies, savings and revenue opportunities were identified and achieved.

I want to acknowledge Clare Martin and the Board of Directors, whose support, strategic oversight and guidance is integral to DEC’s successes and future direction; and the leadership team and staff at DEC, who go above and beyond to ensure DEC is in a position to successfully present the best events on our stages with complete professionalism and dedication.

Thank you to our core funders City of Darwin and Northern Territory Government - your investment is ensuring Territorians have a fantastic asset to be proud of. To our audiences, thank you for your ongoing support of DEC and what we do, it is very much appreciated, and we look forward to seeing you at DEC more in 2023 and beyond.

MIKE HARRIS General Manager

The term The Tale of the Tape is used in the pugilistic arts to describe the combatants’ vital statistics, and in some ways the use of this term seems appropriate for a reflection on the year that was 2021-22.

Bjorn Again

Image Helen Orr

DEAD PUPPET SOCIETY THE WIDER EARTH

This award-winning drama told the story of the rebellious 22-year-old Charles Darwin on the HMS Beagle’s voyage and the story behind one of the most important discoveries in history. An ensemble cast, remarkable puppetry, cinematic projections, and an original score by Lior and Tony Buchen, all combined to bring to life uncharted landscapes and incredible creatures in a creative and exceptional theatrical event.

THE YEAR IN REVIEW

The ongoing reality of change, disruption, and delays saw DEC continue to demonstrate agility, humour, teamwork, and innovation to provide exceptional experiences and create enduring value for all.

The 2021-22 financial year looked promising with a total of 209 performances programmed. However, due to Covid-19 lockdowns interstate and then locally, challenging event cancellations and rescheduling were the reality in the first half of the 2021-22 financial year.

In the second half of the year, the Northern Territory was impacted by the inevitable entry of Covid-19 to the community. For DEC, that meant event reschedules and cancellations due to performer and crew illnesses and promoters scaling back national tours. An example was the cancellation of the Midnight Oil Resist tour on the morning of the event when Peter Garrett tested positive to Covid-19.

Overall, of the 209 performances programmed in the financial year, 156 proceeded as scheduled, or were rescheduled within the year. Of the remaining 53 performances, 15 were rescheduled into 2022-23, and 38 were cancelled altogether.

Despite all of the event movements, 2021-22 was a positive year for creating and continuing partnerships with local festivals: Darwin Festival, Darwin Fringe Festival, Top End Pride Festival, and the inaugural Sugarbag Festival. All four festivals went ahead despite being disrupted by cancellations, reschedules and/or program changes.

A significant operational success for the DEC team was the eventual delivery of Territory Day in partnership with local company LACT Holdings on Sunday 29th August 2021. Territory Day had been cancelled twice (July 2020 and then again in July 2021) due to Covid. The second cancellation, just four days out from the event due to lockdown, meant load-in had already commenced. The event, when it finally proceeded, was highly successful with around 14,000 people in attendance.

In December 2021, the DEC Presents 2022 program was launched simultaneously with the launch of DEC's new brand. This was a worthy introduction to the new branding,

highlighting events programmed by DEC as quality performances curated for enduring experiences.

We worked hard to bring to life professional customer service experiences for patrons, cast and crew. Ticketing and audience information was improved and enhanced. Engaging performances were paired with beverage experiences. Intermission experiences were tested. Multi-sensory and multi-industry experiences were prioritised for spaces, people, and performances.

At the 2022 Garrmalang Festival program launch, we announced the success of obtaining Restart Investment to Sustain and Expand (RISE) funding of $304,345 from the Commonwealth Office for the Arts to support the 2023 Garrmalang Festival. The festival celebrates music, dance, art, cabaret, and theatre and develops the arts sector. The funding will also allow a program of First Nations works across the following year to be introduced as Garrmalang Presents.

Image Prudence Upton

The Board welcomed Clare Martin AO as the Chair who brings with her significant leadership experience as a previous Chief Minister of the Northern Territory and a unique ability to advocate for the Centre. Terri Layman stepped down after two years, Jane De Gault joined the board in May bringing with her significant Media, Communications and Public Relations experience.

Despite the challenges in the year, DEC staff bound together exceptionally to make everything work. At times their substantial effort was affronted with event cancellations outside of their control. Throughout the year though, the team continued with resilience and good humour, and worked cohesively to achieve an undeniably positive outcome for DEC with all shows that did go ahead brought to life with full front of house, production, and technical service. This exceptional outcome occurred because of the determination of the DEC team.

VICTORIAN STATE BALLET — BEAUTY AND THE BEAST

Darwin loves ballet and proved so yet again with large numbers coming out to see two performances of this much-loved fairy tale. Recognised artists in leading roles performed this classical ballet with skill, supported by excellent staging, beautiful costumes, and superb choreography.

STRATEGIC PILLARS & OUTCOMES

Program exceptional artistic work and support outstanding Northern Territory artists

artists,

Territory

OUTCOMES

In 2021-22, 156 performances across 14 genres connected diverse and meaningful content to Darwin audiences. 57% were local well-known Darwin and Top End artists including favourites - King Stingray, Baker Boy, and Amy Hetherington. New local artists and collaborations for DEC included Dami-tji-la (blood) a visual arts exhibition by Larrakia artists from the prominent Lee family.

We curated exceptional opportunities for audiences to engage with and create art, to be energised and inspired by music and dance, to gasp at circus acts, and to grow and bond as communities, experiencing new characters, ideas, and experiences.

Despite challenges with travel, lockdowns, Delta and Omicron waves of the pandemic and ongoing rescheduling, the 2021-22 DEC Presents program included Amy Hetherington, King Stingray, Bell Shakespeare, NT Dance Company, Geraldine Hickey, Jayson Gillham, shake & stir theatre co, COLLIDE, 100 Cities, botanical art workshops, Judith Lucy, The Umbilical Brothers, Victorian State Ballet, The Wider Earth, Bob Downe, On by Circa, Tommy Little, Edward the Emu, Club Soda, The Sapphires, Roald Dahl and the Imaginations Seekers.

We were the venue for exceptional content that lifted the spirits of audiences with comedy from Sooshi

We create and curate great experiences for diverse audiences through live performances and interactions that prioritise exceptional

champion new and existing Northern

talent and build connections with worthy strategic partners.

Mango, SPIN, Aunty Donna, Jimeoin, Joel Creasey, and Urzila Carlson, music from Baker Boy, John Stevens’ The Noiseworks & INXS Collection tour and Bjorn Again, and the emotionally engaging The Resilience Project.

As venue partner for Darwin Festival, we delivered 15 performances in August 2021, after rescheduling due to a Darwin Covid lockdown. These events included The Djari Project, Opera Australia, I've Been Meaning to Ask You, The Pulse, Darwin Symphony Orchestra (DSO), Radiohead for Solo Piano, and Hannah Gadsby.

We partnered with Darwin Fringe Festival for the first time. DEC’s team were excited to deliver events for this iconic event, however, the Festival made the difficult decision to cancel performances across the first scheduled weekend due to a Covid outbreak. Then the entire Festival was cancelled. Fringe 2.0, a smaller, snappier version, was announced in September. Seven local

artists/companies performed shows at the Centre, across two days in October.

We partnered with Top End Pride Festival and the inaugural Sugarbag Festival, providing a venue for celebrating LGBTQIA+ arts, culture and community, through visual arts, dance, and live performance.

For the second year, we provided a venue and support to the NT Performing Arts Awards, which recognises outstanding performers, artists and organisers contributing to the rich performing arts opportunities and talent in the Territory.

Again, we presented children and education programming that continues to be a hit with Darwin audiences. This included Edward the Emu based on the children's books by Sheena Knowles, The Sapphires, a story of identity and the importance of family and Indigenous tradition, Bell Shakespeare’s delivery of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Roald

NT DANCE COMPANY FORBIDDEN

A cross-cultural, cross-border collaboration between NT Dance Company, NAISDA Dance College and Yolngu East Arnhem Land’s Miku Performing Arts premiered at DEC. The collaboration supported NAISDA students to train, learn and perform with NT Dance Company as part of an innovative three-month secondment. The program culminated in the performance of Forbidden.

Dahl and the Imagination Seekers an immersive and interactive performance. We were the chosen venue for other children and education programming including The Wiggles’ Fruit Salad TV Big Show Tour.

We presented Cult Classics at DECmovies curated for a unique opportunity to watch favourites on the big screen. Cult Classics included innovative complementary activities including children’s performance Drag Queen Storytime pre-show and during interval at the screening of Disney’s Frozen, and creative food and beverage to enhance audiences' experiences.

Exceptional experiences were had at the George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens Amphitheatre, a venue managed by DEC, including the ICEHOUSE Great Southern Land 2022 Concert Series and Flight Facilities’ Forever Tour.

The focus on Australian performing arts acts continued, as international options were limited by Covid restrictions. We secured several big names and proudly presented a high-quality program.

Image Duane Preston

2

Drive a professional, influential and resilient centre

We are resilient and determined to provide great experiences at every interaction at DEC by providing welcoming and safe spaces, building skills and confidence, stretching our capacity across all areas of the business, and building shared visions with our government and other partners.

OUTCOMES

This year tested and proved the resilience of DEC. We implemented regulations and guidelines for Covid-19 provided by the Northern Territory Government and Live Performance Australia. We responded to vaccine passports and changing rules. We achieved compliant operations and communicated remarkably well with staff and patrons.

Even though a drop in sales and attendance was anticipated, actual attendance at events was higher than expected. Customers were grateful and glad to be back in the theatre and mostly willingly compliant. Customer feedback was positive.

During 2021-22, we focused on workforce wellbeing and holistic support to manage the challenges of lockdowns, illness, isolation, and general staff shortages. The casual pool and core pool of staff were flexible and adaptable and willing to

assist in any area required. There were significant challenges with workforce availability, especially within the casual workforce, the product of national shortages of backpackers and general staff shortages.

The workforce was supported by leadership in multiple ways. Mental Health First Aid training was shared by a key leader to build team capacity and support. Meetings were held with staff for professional development checkins. Staff were regularly reminded of employee assistance options. Staff gathered for social catch ups, barbeques in the loading dock and a Christmas bake off.

The leadership team took advantage of periods of lower program delivery to guide internal development work. For example, the technical team developed written resources and tools to guide less experienced hirers (such as community groups and

schools) to achieve the best results for their performance in the most efficient manner.

The team focused on maintaining good humour, promoting wellbeing and celebrating every achievement on the journey. DEC staff were able to share learnings and experience with industry peers who reached out for support in understanding Covid related requirements. Industry capacity building support was provided in enabling Charles Darwin University Live Production and Technical Services students to get hands on practical experience with flyline systems in the venue.

During the year, the production team received new equipment enhancing production quality and receiving great feedback. Front of house teams continued to provide smooth and safe events and business services.

Times of reduced delivery enabled a focus on efficiency. Work on standard operating procedures, VenueOps, staff cross-training and communication protocols will help DEC reach its potential.

A VenueOps review project was undertaken and resulted in quality and efficiency improvements to bookings and enquiries, central information management and data entry. Behind the scenes, excellent efficiency improvements will power DEC as an exceptional venue for MICE events. More streamlined event set ups drove smoother operations and greater revenue retention.

The Talent Learning Management System implementation was well received. Core technical and operational employees provided excellent input, adding procedures and building content in the system. The high level of engagement with

Thank you to you and your team at DEC. You were exceptionally accommodating, and nothing was a hassle. That is rare. [The team] set a very high standard that I think most other theatres in Australia fall a little short of. [They] really understood what was required and what to use and how to get it, with little to no input from me.

CLIENT TESTIMONIAL

GRAVITY & OTHER MYTHS THE PULSE

One of Darwin Festival’s biggest commissions had 30 acrobats and 22 choristers on The Playhouse stage. The outstanding performance embodied seemingly impossible human movement and voice in a unique and stunning performance that captivated and temporarily transported audiences into itself. Rebooking five near sold out shows, to only four, due to Darwin lockdowns, caused almost equal human triumphs to provide seats to all who had previously purchased tickets.

the system has resulted in increased compliance in managing safety and customer service risks.

There were 24 minor safety incidents - none of significance. Incident tracking and reporting processes saw improvements, primarily in identifying trends promptly, enabling early intervention.

We continued to be resilient and to apply flexible and practical responses to Government mandates, regulations, and guidelines for Covid-19.

Staff worked from home during lockdowns. The withdrawal of the majority of Covid restrictions and strict mandates in June 2022, allowed DEC to reframe Covid-19 as an ongoing reality. This reality will be managed within business-as-usual operations allowing DEC to operate as a professional, influential, and resilient Centre.

OUTCOMES

Our 2021-22 programs were meaningful, moving, and inspiring and connected Darwin and NT audiences with a wide range of genres.

Whilst programming for our audiences was broad, ticket sales indicated a preference for comedy and lighthearted entertainment. Contemporary music programs generally did not achieve the usual level of support. This pattern reflects the experiences of the sector nationally.

In December 2021, the DEC Presents 2022 program was launched simultaneously with the launch of the new brand. The new brand strategy and brand style represents DEC as

The Creator, amplifying and giving voice to meaningful things, moving, and inspiring people and creating enduring value through shared experiences, interactions, and memories. DEC is now a brand with a vision to connect, curate and create.

In a major first, we partnered with the iconic Darwin Fringe Festival, Darwin's biggest platform for emerging and independent local organisations and artists. Fringe 2.0 was delivered with nine live performances held in DEC spaces over a two-day period.

We remained the home of DSO who presented five events at the Centre in 2021-22. Our production team assisted DSO to innovate with the visual

and performance aspects of Action/ Adventure by projecting images on to the sound shells relevant to the themes being played.

We enjoyed the opportunity to support the innovative programming of Amy Hetherington's Crying Over Spilt Milk stand up show with afternoon and night performances actively encouraging audiences to BYO baby.

The broader matinee program offered opportunities to see more than 14 different artists. This used the traditionally quieter and underutilised day time to offer programs to families and schools, seniors, and others such as shift workers.

We champion creativity, innovation and growth in the arts and culture sector and strive to reach broader audiences to participate in creating shared memories and growing societal roots.

Energise, develop and inspire the cultural and artistic life of Darwin by deepening our community engagement and growing our audiences.

Image Helen Orr

Arguably the hottest band in the country with a swag of awards, members of King Stingray originate from Yirrkala in NorthEast Arnhem Land. The band, who perform songs in both Yolŋu Matha and English, performed at DEC in May to launch the 2022 Garrmalang Festival program of events.

The MICE (Meeting, Incentives, Conferences, Exhibitions) events at DEC brought different experiences to the Centre for corporate, business and community, and social focused audiences. The New Sunrise Iceworks Conference saw more than 300 attendees attend the Centre to experience supplier partners transforming the Centre into a colourful Willy Wonka inspired candy world exhibition.

The Smith Family smARTS partnership continued. In May, Joanna Noonan and SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre mentors facilitated the program which included a performance component to an audience of 140 students from Casuarina Senior College, friends, and family.

We presented 11 high quality children and education performances connecting with school and family audiences and hosted the locally coordinated All Youth Conference for young people between 18-29 to come together and discuss topics of relevance to them around the Youth Week theme of 'Our Time is Now'.

For audiences reminiscing their youth the OG Wiggles 2022 Australian reunion tour performance at DEC was a highlight of the year. We supported the Top End Pride and Sugarbag festivals which celebrated the LGBTQIA+ communities and Territorians.

The Darwin Amphitheatre was the venue for an outstanding line up over the year which also included Ministry of Sound Classical with Groove Terminator and Carl Cox & Eric Powell’s Mobile Disco. The Amphitheatre was again the venue for the 46th Darwin Carols by Candlelight and DSO's All Out 80s music spectacular.

The visual arts program continued in this year. Three sold-out interactive botanical art workshops with Anastasia Maximova allowed participants to explore a self-selected botanical piece and build skills to create and transform their own piece of artwork.

Garrmalang Festival was delayed until July 2022. With the addition of new RISE funding, both the festival and

DEC’s forecourt area activation was intentionally continued for events and gatherings after initially successful trialling to manage social distancing. This extends patrons' time in the venue, offers a unique space to eat and drink as part of their DEC experience, and brings to life our street frontage.

Bespoke bars, food, and experiences were implemented to complement performance experiences. A highlight was themed cocktails such as Pride Punch for the Pride Festival events. Other alcoholic and non-alcoholic slushies as well as lower alcohol and more health-conscious products were introduced. These enhancements offered options to match the diversity of our audiences.

Garrmalang Presents program aim to strengthen DEC's connection to, and amplification of, First Nations works and artists and build connections to the broader community

Manage a financially sustainable organisation

OUTCOMES

Despite all the difficulties, cancellations, and challenges with audiences, in 202122, we still delivered a net operational surplus of $31,774 before non-cash expenses. Factoring in depreciation, movement in staff entitlements and other non-cash expenses we faced a net operational deficit of $210,629. Ticket sales, after factoring in refunds, have increased 21% from the prior year, however, Covid-19 related refunds have increased to a greater extent.

Audience types remained steady and engaged across all genres, except for contemporary music which has seen a notable downturn in ticket sales. As well, some performances were withdrawn by promoters due to poor ticket sales in the early stages of the on-sale period. Audience purchasing behaviour changed in this financial year with up to 30% of ticket purchases occurring in the last days before a performance. Whilst performances are still achieving average ticket sales comparable to the previous year, the changed audience behaviour created withdrawals and eventual adjustment of performer and promoter expectations for these new sales patterns.

Work

Hannah Gadsby, Body of

To continue to bring opportunities to life for the long term, we aim to operate a financially sustainable organisation that innovates to create diverse income streams, operates professionally and safely, and thrives with strong and appropriate governance and management.

The realistic financial performance, in the circumstances, is not due to just ticket sales or any one thing. We actively developed the business and implemented improvements through testing, innovating, and bringing many new ideas to life.

We continued to look at opportunities for multiple programming of popular acts. We expanded the profitable MICE programming to diversify revenue streams, with events scheduled in this area attracting significant audiences.

We employed prudence with wages and staffing. With staff movement and natural attrition, we took opportunities to: manage efficiency with vacancies; increase cross-training and opportunities for staff to work across roles; review role scope whilst work volumes were reduced; and take opportunities for our people to stretch and grow, especially in the technical and production spaces.

Venue hire experience was enhanced by streamlining and expediting cost estimate and settlement processes. Venue technical packages were reset to best meet venue users' needs and appropriately cover expenses. We also added value through improved

cue sheets and technical maps that better support users to achieve their performance potential and reduce stress and effort in using equipment.

We managed and reduced risks for the Centre through the living risk register, which is reviewed routinely and as required, in consultation with stakeholders and the board.

NTix facilitated successful ticket sales at four events held at the Darwin Amphitheatre.

Our funding partnerships with the Northern Territory Government and City of Darwin continue. Negotiations for renewal are due to commence in the next financial year and we look forward to working with both to ensure the partnerships continue to provide appropriate and activated spaces, and opportunities to connect Territorians with artists, performers and experiences that give meaning to living and working in the Top End.

Encouragingly, as things returned to normal, DEC was able to achieve a strong financial performance within the last quarter of the 2021-22 financial year. Looking to the future, we hope to

be able to build on these strong financial foundations by increasing repeat audience attendance figures, attracting new grants and sponsorship revenues, and building our membership structures.

THE WIGGLES & THE OG WIGGLES

More than 3,000 people of all ages engaged with The Wiggles across three sold out performances of Fruit Salad TV Big Show Tour. The Wiggles’ first fans were also excited to be part of the The OG Wiggles Reunion Tour featuring Anthony Field, Murray Cook, Jeff Fatt and Greg Page with cameos by other original characters. The performance was supported by Australian rock group Polish Club.

SUPPORTING OUR ARTS COMMUNITY

DEC is proud to continue to help local artists and arts and community organisations reach their potential and connect to audiences through in-kind support each year. Our support assists organisations to continue to deliver opportunities and experiences to individuals, audiences, and the sector.

Support includes free or discounted use of rehearsal and performance space, subsidised marketing and promotional activities run through the Centre, and technical, event and administrative support during rehearsals and performance periods.

In 2021-22, subsidies to the value of $234,758 was provided to the following 29 community groups to help them deliver performances to the Darwin community:

• Amy Hetherington

• Arafura Calisthenics Club

• BRG Productions

• Cancer Council NT

• Carols by Candlelight

• COLLIDE – Tania Lieman, Brown's Mart, SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre

• Dami-tji-la (blood) Exhibition

• Darwin Festival

• Darwin Fringe Festival

• Darwin Performance Academy

• Darwin Symphony Orchestra

• Duprada Dance Company

• Dream Calisthenics Dance Club

• ForrestPR – All Youth Conference

• Haileybury Rendall School

$234,758

in subsidies provided to 29 community groups

• Larrakeyah Primary School

• Leisa's School of Dancing

• Kuya James

• Northern Territory Calisthenics Association

• NT Music School

• Royal Existence Dance Academy

• SAM's Dance Studio

• Skipping NT

• SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre

• St Mary's Catholic Primary School

• Sugarbag Festival

• The Beat Foundation Incorporated

• Top End Pride

• We3 – NT Performing Arts Awards

In November 2021, DEC co-presented COLLIDE, the result of a collaboration between Tania Lieman with Brown’s Mart and SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre. This electrifying physical theatre performance was written and directed by local Tania Lieman, choreographed by Joanna Noonan and Immanuel Dado, and performed by Territory artists from Brown's Mart, SLIDE company dancers and WAAPA graduates.

NT DANCE COMPANY

NT Dance Company offers contemporary dance workshops, choreography, school dance programs and performances celebrating both local and neighbouring Indigenous cultures.

In September 2021, NT Dance Company performed Forbidden, a cross-cultural, crossborder collaboration between NT Dance Company, National Aboriginal Islander Skills Development Association (NAISDA) Dance College and East Arnhem Land’s Miku Performing Arts. Forbidden took audiences on a 50 minute journey exploring life’s complex and competing emotions, as the dancers interpret one man’s encounter with adversity, peer pressure and community expectation that forbids him from openly expressing his darkest emotions.

DEC ARTIST-IN-RESIDENCE COMPANIES

In addition to our regular support to community groups, we are home and provide in-kind support though the use of rehearsal and performance spaces to NT Dance Company and SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre.

SLIDE YOUTH DANCE THEATRE

SLIDE Youth Dance Theatre offers contemporary youth dance theatre suitable for audiences of all ages. SLIDE shows are not only entertaining but often explore challenging social issues affecting young people. SLIDE had a hugely successful 2021 performance season ending the calendar year with a special double bill dance theatre event. Infinitesimal and The Day Before Yesterday offered audiences two experiences for the price of one. SLIDE also collaborated with the DSO on Pictures.

Falling, a humorous dance theatre piece telling the story of five students falling in different emotional ways, aimed to bring laughter and smiles to audiences. Inspired by Benjamin Hoff's allegorical tale The Tao of Pooh, all aspects of the performance were developed in collaboration with the youth company dancers with all benefiting from involvement in the entire production process – from script and character development, to props and costuming and experience in choreography development.

Image Duane Preston

Darwin pulled out all the stops to see the multi-award winning Urzila Carlson after her previous tour was rescheduled twice and then ultimately cancelled. A full house, and more than 1,000 people came to see her show where she explored the complications of oversharing and then letting everyone know - It’s Personal.

2021–22 PERFORMANCES & EVENTS

THE PLAYHOUSE

2021 BEAT FESTIVAL

A TASTE OF IRELAND

AUNTY DONNA The Magical Dead Cat Tour

BAKER BOY

BELL SHAKESPEARE A Midsummer Night's Dream

BJORN AGAIN Mamma Mia! We Are Back Again Tour!

BOB DOWNE Viva Bob Vegas!

CANCER COUNCIL NT Conquering Cancer Screening COLLIDE

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC Cars

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC Dirty Dancing

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC Frozen

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC Moana

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC Moulin Rouge

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC Pretty Woman

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC Priscilla, Queen of the Desert

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC Romeo + Juliet

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC Scream

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC The Incredibles

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC The Lion King

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC The Rocky Horror Picture Show

CULT CLASSICS AT DEC The Terminator

DARWIN PERFORMANCE ACADEMY Victorious

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Action / Adventure

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Family Proms

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Pictures

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Two Fifths

DARWIN SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA Wavelengths

DEAD PUPPET SOCIETY The Wider Earth

DEPARTMENT OF INDUSTRY TOURISM & TRADE Forum

DUPRADA DANCE COMPANY Swan Lake GRAVITY & OTHER MYTHS The Pulse

HAILEYBURY RENDALL SCHOOL Beauty and the Beast HANNAH GADSBY Body of Work

NEW SUNRISE ICEWORKS CONFERENCE 2022 JAYSON GILLHAM

JIMEOIN Turn It Up!

JOEL CREASEY Basic AF

JON STEVENS The Noiseworks & INXS Collection Tour

JUDITH LUCY Turns Out I’m Fine

KING STINGRAY

LEISA'S SCHOOL OF DANCING The Magic of Dance – Cinderella

LARRAKEYAH PRIMARY SCHOOL Mulan

MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL COMEDY FESTIVAL ROADSHOW

MONKEY BAA THEATRE COMPANY Edward the Emu

NT CALISTHENICS SOLO, DUO AND GRACEFUL CHAMPIONSHIPS

NT CALISTHENICS TEAM CHAMPIONSHIPS

NT DANCE COMPANY Forbidden

ON BY CIRCA

OPERA AUSTRALIA Carmen

RAW COMEDY NT FINAL

ROYAL EXISTENCE DANCE ACADEMY Purpose

ROYAL EXISTENCE DANCE ACADEMY Ready Set Create

SAM'S DANCE STUDIO Fantasy

SHAKE & STIR THEATRE CO Animal Farm

SHOWCASE AUSTRALIAN DANCE CHAMPIONSHIPS

SOOSHI MANGO Off The Boat

SPIN - THE ANCIENT ART OF BULLSH*#TING

ST MARY'S CATHOLIC PRIMARY SCHOOL 21st Century Dancing

THE BEST OF THE BEE GEES FEATURING COLIN "SMILEY" PETERSEN

THE DJARI PROJECT

THE RESILIENCE PROJECT

THE SAPPHIRES

THE WIGGLES Fruit Salad TV Big Show Tour

THE OG WIGGLES REUNION TOUR

TOMMY LITTLE

URZILA CARLSON It's Personal

VICTORIAN STATE BALLET Beauty and the Beast

WORLD OF MUSICALS

STUDIO THEATRE

A HISTORY OF HANKY PANKY: WORK IN PROGRESS

ALL YOUTH CONFERENCE 2022

AMY HETHERINGTON Crying Over Spilt Milk

BECKY LUCAS Small Talk

BLACK DIVAZ SCREENING

CLASS CLOWNS

CLUB SODA

DARWIN PRIDE FESTIVAL 2022 Fiercely Fluro Dance Party

DEADLY FUNNY

ENGINEERS AUSTRALIA Elevation

FRIDGE THE PLAY: A READING

GERALDINE HICKEY

IN CONCERT, THE MUSIC OF NEIL DIAMOND I'VE BEEN MEANING TO ASK YOU

KUYA JAMES 100 Cities

NORTHERN TERRITORY 2021 PERFORMING ARTS AWARDS

PETER WILLIAMS MEDIUM LIVE

PETER WILLIAMS MEDIUM Searching Spirit Tour

ROALD DAHL AND THE IMAGINATION SEEKERS

SLIDE YOUTH DANCE THEATRE Double Bill – Infinitesimal, The Day Before Yesterday

SLIDE YOUTH DANCE THEATRE Falling

SLIDE YOUTH DANCE Someone Else's Story

SUGARBAG FESTIVAL Queerly Beloved

THE SICKLE OF LOVE

THE UMBILICAL BROTHERS The Distraction TOP END PRIDE Burlesque

SHAKE & STIR THEATRE CO — ANIMAL FARM

Physical theatre at its best, Animal Farm was one of the most shocking, relevant, and wickedly funny theatre events of the year. shake & stir theatre co impressively brought the farm and its tragedy to life whilst keeping true to George Orwell's original work.

THE GALLERY, REHEARSAL ROOM AND OTHER SPACES

2021 LOCAL GOVERNMENT ELECTIONS POLLING A BEGINNER'S GUIDE TO BEING A MODERN-DAY BRENT BOTANICAL JOURNALLING AND SKETCHING BOTANICAL NUMBERS IN NATURE CALLS TO 1194

DAMI-TJI-LA (BLOOD) EXHIBITION GOOD MOVE WORKSHOPS NIDA WORKSHOPS

NORTHERN TERRITORY INDIGENOUS BUSINESS NETWORK Barefoot Business

RADIOHEAD FOR SOLO PIANO REDNECK GREENIE Confessions of an Ozymoron SUGARBAG FESTIVAL We The People TRANSFORMATION BOTANICAL WORKSHOP WITH ANASTASIA MAXIMOVA WE THE JURY

NTIX

CARL COX & ERIC POWELL’S MOBILE DISCO

FLIGHT FACILITIES ICEHOUSE MINISTRY OF SOUND CLASSICAL

Image Dylan Evans

BOARD MEMBERS

Chair

Hon. Clare Martin AO

Directors

Charlie Falanga

John Glenn

Dr Wendy Ludwig

Neville Pantazis

Terri Layman (until March 2022)

Jane de Gault (from May 2022)

CORE STAFF

General Manager

Mike Harris

Operations

Venue & Operations Manager

Jati Wixted

Technical Manager

Josh Batten

Head Lighting Technician Tomm Lydiard

Audio & Staging Coordinator

Peter Colautti

Events Coordinator

Emily Silburn (until April) Mica Jones (from April)

Events Assistant Jack Buckley

Box Office Manager

Amelia Jackson (until March) Luke Evans (from March)

Venue Maintenance & Cleaning

Peter Burghof Ann Peters

Programming

Senior Producer

Veronica Howson (until April) Emily Silburn (from April)

Producer Libby Lynch (to March)

Education & Youth Coordinator Joanna Noonan

Garrmalang Festival Creative

Producer Wendy Ludwig (from May)

Marketing & Communications

Marketing Manager

Melissa White

Marketing Coordinator Felicity Elliott

Marketing & Graphic Design Coordinator

Jo Boniface

Digital Marketing Coordinator Mellisa Hutton (from April)

Finance & Admin

Finance & Business Manager

Sophie Jovanovich Accounts Officer

Theo Kokkinomagoulos (from January)

Administration Officer Amanda Francis (to December)

OUR FINANCIALS

The 2021-22 financial year ended with an operating deficit of $210,629 after non-cash expenses. Encouragingly a small surplus of $31,774 was maintained before non-cash expenses were accounted for.

Lockdowns, lockouts, postponements, cancellations, and the winding up of Territory and Federal Government Covid stimulus support provided a challenging operating environment.

The operational budget for the period was endorsed prior to Darwin’s first lockdown and was founded on continuing the successes of the February to June 2021 period as one of the few venues in Australia without capacity restrictions. Our actual net operating deficit after non-cash of $210,629 is significantly below our original budgeted result of a conservative $7,500 surplus.

This underperformance against budget highlights the costly impact event cancellations and reschedules had on our bottom line, as we incurred substantial set-up costs with no opportunity to recover these after tickets were refunded. Covid-19 related ticket refunds totalled $370,107 which was a 179% increase against the 202021 refund totals of $132,699.

The loss of shows due to cancellations or postponements outside of the financial year was between $800,000 to $1 million in gross revenues, with most cancellations falling in the first six months of 2021-22. As restrictions eased, we were able to pick up additional events which left us only $600,000 down from our budgeted revenue expectations at the close of the year.

Despite the uncertainty, 2021-22 saw 3% growth in our total revenues compared to the prior year which had been supplemented with $703,000 in Covid-19 stimulus grants. This revenue growth was partly due to revised commercial pricing structures and a revamped food and beverage offering. Unfortunately, a 5% increase in expenses outpaced our revenue growth.

The following audited financial report provides a detailed look at our financial position for the year ended 30 June 2022.

Image Brett Boardman

Darwin Entertainment Centre

ABN 14 009 624 248

Director’s Report

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

Director’s Report

The directors present their report on the Darwin Performing Arts Centre (the Company), trading as the Darwin Entertainment Centre (the Centre), together with the financial statements for the financial year ended 30 June 2022

1. General Information

a) Principal activities and significant changes in nature of activities

The principal activities of the Company during the financial year were the hiring of the theatres and other areas within the Centre, entrepreneurial activities in the staging of shows and acting as a ticketing agent for other venues.

There were no significant changes in the nature of the Company’s principal activities during the financial year.

2. Business Review

a) Operating Results

The operating deficit of the Company for the financial year amounted to $210,629 (2021: $101,458 operating surplus).

b) Review of Operations

A review of the operations of the Company during the financial year and the results of those operations show that during the year, the Company continued to engage in its principal activities, the results of which are disclosed in the attached financial statements.

As a result of the entity initially adopting AASB 1060 General Purpose Financial Statements Simplified Disclosures for For Profit and Not For Profit Tier 2 Entities from 1 July 2021, the financial statements are the first general purpose financial statements prepared in accordance with the Australian Accounting Standards Simplified Disclosures.

In the prior year, the consolidated financial statements were general purpose financial statements prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards Reduced Disclosure Requirements.

3. Other Items

a) Auditor’s Independence Declaration

The auditor's independence declaration for the year ended 30 June 2022 has been received and can be found on page 30 of the financial report.

b) Significant Changes in State of Affairs

No significant changes in the Company's state of affairs occurred during the financial year.

ABN 14 009 624 248

Director’s Report

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

c) Post balance sheet events

No major matters or circumstances, have arisen since the end of the financial year which significantly affect or may significantly affect the operations of the Company, the results of those operations or the state of affairs of the Company in future financial years.

d) Future developments

The Company expects to continue its principal operations. Further information about likely developments in the operations of the Company and the expected results of those operations in future financial years have not been included in this report as the inclusion of such information is likely to result in unreasonable prejudice to the Company.

4. Corporate Structure

Darwin Performing Arts Centre is a not for profit company limited by guarantee that is incorporated and domiciled in Australia.

5. Employees

The Company employed 16 (2021:16) permanent employees as at 30 June 2022. The Company employed up to 90 (2021: 62) casual employees during the year as required.

6. Director Information

a) Board of Directors

Name Position Appointment Date End of Term

Hon. Clare Martin Chair 9 August 2022 8 August 2023

John Glenn Director 8 February 2016 6 February 2024

Dr. Wendy Ludwig Director 29 February 2016 4 November 2022

Neville Pantazis Director 14 November 2014 4 November 2022

Charlie Falanga Director 26 February 2019 24 February 2023

Terri Layman Director 9 March 2020 8 March 2022

Jane De Gault Director 13 May 2022 16 May 2024

ABN 14 009 624 248

Director’s Report

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

b) Meetings of Directors

During the financial year, 7 meetings of directors were held. Attendances by each director during the year were as follows:

Directors’ Meetings

Name Number eligible to attend Number attended

Hon. Clare Martin 7 7

John Glenn 7 5 Dr. Wendy Ludwig 6 6 Neville Pantazis 7 6 Charlie Falanga 7 6 Terri Layman 5 4

7. Directors’ Benefits

During or since the end of the financial year no director of the Company has received or become entitled to receive any benefit, other than a benefit included in the aggregate amount of emoluments received or due and receivable by the directors shown in the financial statements, by reason of a contract entered into by the Company or a body corporate that was related to the Company when the contract was made when the director received, or became entitled to receive, the benefit with: a director, or a firm of which the director is a member, or an entity in which the director has a substantial financial interest.

8. Members’ Guarantee

The Company is limited by guarantee. If the Company is wound up, the Constitution states that each member is required to contribute a maximum of $10 each towards any outstanding obligations of the Company. At 30 June 2022, the number of members was 21 (2021: 22).

9. Indemnifying Officers or Auditors

a) No indemnities

No indemnities have been given, during or since the end of the financial year, for any person who is or has been an employee or auditor of the Company.

ABN 14 009 624 248

Director’s Report

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

b) Insurance premiums paid for directors

The Company has paid premiums to insure each of the directors against liabilities for costs and expenses incurred by them in defending any legal proceedings arising out of their conduct while acting in the capacity of director of the Company, other than conduct involving a wilful breach of duty in relation to the Company. The amount of the premium is $4,633 (2021: $4,633), inclusive of GST.

10. Proceedings on Behalf of Company

a) No Leave or proceedings

No person has applied for leave of Court to bring proceedings on behalf of the Company or to intervene in any proceedings to which the Company is a party for the purpose of taking responsibility on behalf of the Company for all or any part of those proceedings.

The Company was not a party to any such proceedings during the year.

11. Environmental regulations

The Company’s operations are subject to Commonwealth and Territory regulations governing environmental requirements

The Directors believe that all regulations have been met and are not aware of any incidents during the financial year from the operations of the Company.

Signed in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors:

Carmelo Falanga (Nov 30, 2022 21:08 GMT+9.5)

Director: Director: Dated this day of 2022

30th November

CarmeloFalanga

ABN 14 009 624 248

Director’s Declaration

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

Director’s Declaration

The directors of the Company declare that:

1. The Company is not publicly accountable;

2. The financial statements and notes, as set out on pages 8 to 26, are in accordance with the Australian Charities and Non for profits Commission Act 2012 including: a) complying with Australian Accounting Standards Simplified Disclosures and the Australian Charities and Not for profits Commission Regulation 2013; and b) giving a true and fair view of the financial position as at 30 June 2022 and of the performance for the year ended on that date of the Company.

3. In the directors' opinion, there are reasonable grounds to believe that the Company will be able to pay its debts as and when they become due and payable.

This declaration is made in accordance with a resolution of the Board of Directors.

CarmeloFalanga

Director:

Director: Dated : 30 November 2022

Carmelo Falanga (Nov 30, 2022 21:08 GMT+9.5)

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

Statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income

Note 2022 $ 2021 $

Revenue and income 2 3,870,179 3,984,908

Administrative costs 1,121,715 1,111,117 Box Office 220,957 184,525

Depreciation and amortisation expense 6 213,011 134,770

Impairment of non financial assets 11 - 226,500

Entrepreneurial expenses 1,108,629 639,714

Front of House/Bar 373,660 451,412

Marketing 314,861 332,467

Technical 443,734 514,760

Utilities 244,459 222,865

Building repairs and maintenance 39,782 65,320

Total Expenses 4,080,808 3,883,450

Operating Surplus (deficit) (210,629) 101,458

Other comprehensive income - -

Total comprehensive (loss)/income for the year (210,629) 101,458

The Statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income is to be read in conjunction with the attached notes.

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Financial Position

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

Statement of Financial Position

ASSETS

Current Assets

Note 2022 2021 $ $

Cash and cash equivalent 8 1,789,255 1,794,106 Trade and Other Receivables 9 111,201 90,910 Inventories 10 40,581 31,927 Total Current Assets 1,941,037 1,916,943

Non-current assets Property, plant and equipment 11 951,811 693,377 Intangible assets 12 17,076 31,502 Total non-current assets 968,887 724,879

TOTAL ASSETS 2,909,924 2,641,822

LIABILITIES

Current Liabilities

Trade and other payables 13 1,468,129 1,022,240 Employee benefits 14 78,684 65,074 Total current liabilities 1,546,813 1,087,314

Non-current liabilities Employee benefits 14 51,263 32,031 Total non-current liabilities 51,263 32,031

TOTAL LIABILITIES 1,598,076 1,119,345

NET ASSETS 1,311,848 1,522,477

EQUITY

Accumulated surplus 1,311,848 1,522,477

TOTAL EQUITY 1,311,848 1,522,477

The Statement of Financial Position is to be read in conjunction with the attached notes.

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Changes in Equity

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

Statement of Changes in Equity

2022

Balance as at 1 July 2021

Accumulated Surplus $ Total $

1,522,477 1,522,477

Total comprehensive loss for the year (210,629) (210,629) Balance as at 30 June 2022 1,311,848 1,311,848

2021

Accumulated Surplus $ Total $

Balance as at 1 July 2020 1,421,019 1,421,019

Total comprehensive income for the year 101,458 101,458 Balance as at 30 June 2021 1,522,477 1,522,477

The Statement of Changes in Equity is to be read in conjunction with the attached notes.

ABN 14 009 624 248

Statement of Cash Flows

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

Statement of Cash Flows

Cash flow from operating activities:

Note 2022 2021 $ $

Receipts from customers 2,462,297 2,372,018 Payments to suppliers (3,721,912) (3,477,086)

Operating grants received 1,710,376 1,550,824 Interest received 1,406 5,852 Net cash generated from operating activities 452,167 451,608

Cash flow from investing activities:

Acquisition of property, plant and equipment (457,018) (110,259) Net cash used by investing activities (457,018) (110,259)

Net (decrease)/ increase in cash and cash equivalents (4,851) 341,349

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year 1,794,106 1,452,757

Cash and cash equivalents at end of year 8 1,789,255 1,794,106

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

1. Statement of Significant Accounting Policies a) General Information

Darwin Performing Arts Centre is a Company limited by guarantee, incorporated and domiciled in Australia. The Company trades as Darwin Entertainment Centre. The following is a summary of the significant accounting policies adopted by the Company in the preparation of the financial statements. The registered office of the Company is:

Darwin Entertainment Centre 93 Mitchell Street

Darwin NT 0800

b) Basis of Preparation

In the opinion of the directors, the Company is not publicly accountable. The financial statements are general purpose financial statements for distribution to the members and for the purpose of fulfilling the requirements of the Australian Charities and Not For Profits Commission (ACNC) Act 2012. They have been prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards Simplified Disclosures made by the Australian Accounting Standards Board and the Australian Charities and Not For Profits Commission (ACNC) Act 2012.

The financial statements are the first general purpose financial statements prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards Simplified Disclosures. In the prior year, the financial statements were general purpose financial statements prepared in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards Reduced Disclosure Requirements. There was no impact on the recognition and measurement of amounts recognised in the statements of financial position, profit and loss and other comprehensive income and cash flows of the Company as a result of the change in the basis of preparation.

The financial statements have been prepared on a historical cost basis. The concept of accrual accounting has been adopted in preparation of the financial statements. The accounting policies have been consistently applied, unless otherwise stated.

New and amended standards adopted by the Company

The Company has initially adopted the following standards and amendments from 1 July 2021:

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

1. Statement of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

b) Basis of Preparation (continued)

• AASB 1060 General Purpose Financial Statements Simplified Disclosures for For-Profit and Not for Profit Tier 2 Entities;

• AASB 2020-2 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards Removal of Special Purpose Financial Statements for Certain For Profit Private Sector Entities.

The above standards and amendments did not have any impact on the amounts recognised in prior periods and are not expected to significantly affect the current or future periods.

A number of other new standards are also effective from 1 July 2021 but they do not have a material effect on the Company’s financial statements.

c) Functional and presentation currency

The financial statements are presented in Australian dollars, which is the Company’s functional currency.

d) Use of estimates and judgements

The preparation of financial statements requires management to make judgements, estimates and assumptions that affect the application of accounting policies and the reported amounts of assets, liabilities, income and expenses. Actual results may differ from these estimates.

Estimates and underlying assumptions are reviewed on an ongoing basis. Revisions to accounting estimates are recognised prospectively.

e) Inventories

Inventories are measured at the lower of cost and net realisable value. Costs are assigned on an average basis.

f) Property, Plant and Equipment

Each class of property, plant and equipment is carried at cost less, where applicable, any accumulated depreciation and impairment losses.

i) Plant and Equipment

Plant and equipment is measured on the cost basis less depreciation and impairment losses. Assets purchased for less than $300 during the year have been directly expensed. If significant parts of an item of property, plant and equipment have different useful lives, they are accounted for as separate items of property, plant and equipment. Any gain or loss on disposal of an item of property, plant and equipment is recognised in the Statement of Profit and Loss and Other Comprehensive Income.

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

1. Statement of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

f) Property, Plant and Equipment (continued)

ii) Depreciation

All fixed assets are depreciated on a straight line basis over their useful lives, commencing from the time the asset is held ready for use.

The estimated useful lives used for each class of depreciable assets are:

Class of Asset

Plant and Equipment 2 to 5 years

Office Furniture and Equipment 1 to 5 years Motor Vehicles 4 years Building Improvement 10 years

The assets' residual value and useful lives are reviewed, and adjusted if appropriate, at each balance sheet date.

iii) Impairment

An asset is said to be impaired when the asset’s carrying amount exceeds its recoverable amount.

Non current physical assets are assessed for indicators of impairment on an annual basis of whenever there is an indication of impairment. If an indicator of impairment exists, the Company determines the recoverable amount. Any amount by which the asset’s carrying amount exceeds the recoverable amount is recorded as an impairment loss.

In certain situations, an impairment loss may be subsequently reversed. Where an impairment loss is reversed, the carrying amount of the asset is increased to the revised recoverable amount.

Impairment losses are recognised as expenses in the statement of profit and loss. A reversal of impairment losses is recognised as income in the statement of profit and loss.

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

1. Statement of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

g) Employee Benefits

Employee benefits liabilities are recognised for employee benefits such as wages and salaries, annual leave and long service leave in respect of services provided by the employee up to the reporting date. Liabilities for employee benefits are assessed at each reporting date. Where it is expected that the leave will be paid in the next twelve months the liability is treated as a current liability. Otherwise the liability is treated as non current.

The superannuation expense for the reporting period is the amount of the contribution the Company makes to the superannuation plan which provides benefits to its employees.

h) Income Tax

No provision for income tax has been raised as the Company is exempt from income tax under Division 50 of the Income Tax Assessment Act 1997

i) Goods and Services Tax (GST)

Revenues, expenses and assets are recognised net of the amount of goods and services tax (GST), except where the amount of GST incurred is not recoverable from the Australian Taxation Office. In these circumstances the GST is recognised as part of the cost of acquisition of the asset or as part of an item of the expense. Receivables and payables in the Statement of Financial Position are shown exclusive of GST.

Cash flows are presented in the Statement of Cash Flows on a gross basis, except for the GST component of investing and financing activities, which are disclosed as operating cash flow.

j) Revenue and income

i) Grant income

The Company obtains income via government grants. Enforceable government grants with sufficiently specific performance obligations are recognised as income as these performance obligations are met.

Where grants do not meet the criteria as above, income is recognised upon receipt of funding.

ii) Sponsorship income

Cash sponsorship is taken to income in the period to which it relates. The total value of in kind sponsorship is booked to income and expenditure as it is used

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

1. Statement of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

j) Revenue and income (Continued)

iii) Grant income

The Company obtains income via government grants. Enforceable government grants with sufficiently specific performance obligations are recognised as income as these performance obligations are met.

Where grants do not meet the criteria as above, income is recognised upon receipt of funding.

iv) Sponsorship income

Cash sponsorship is taken to income in the period to which it relates. The total value of in kind sponsorship is booked to income and expenditure as it is used.

v) Interest income

Interest revenue is recognised as interest accrues using the effective interest method. This is a method of calculating amortised cost of a financial asset and allocating the interest income over the relevant period using the effective interest rate.

vi) Performance revenue

Only revenue attributable to performances staged by the Company is reflected in gross terms in operating revenue. Commission on ticket sales and venue hire are recognised in the case of Playhouse, Studio Theatre and other venue performances, at the completion of a performance or season.

Receipts from ticket sales that derives from the activities of commercial promoters and other external parties hiring the Centre is held by the Company in a designated bank account recorded in the asset ledger. All such receipts are also recorded as a corresponding liability on the Statement of Financial Position, resulting in a nil effect on net assets.

All revenue is stated net of the amount of GST.

k) Long Term Repairs and Maintenance

In 1996, an agreement was reached between the City of Darwin and the Northern Territory Government, whereby the Department of Infrastructure, Planning and Logistics would supervise and be responsible for the payment of the long term repairs and maintenance of the building.

l) Economic Dependency

The Company receives significant grant funds from the City of Darwin and the Northern Territory Government. Funding for the 2022-23 financial year has been confirmed by both major funding bodies. The financial report has been prepared on a going concern basis on the expectation that such funding will continue.

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

1. Statement of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

m) Sponsorship Provided Community Support

From 1 July 2014, the accounting policy was changed so that for community support, provided by waiver of standard charges, for venue hire for Front of House and Technical services neither the income or discount expense is recorded in the financials.

n) Financial Instruments

Financial Assets:

Recognition and initial measurement

Trade receivables and debt securities issued are initially recognised when they are originated. Financial assets and financial liabilities are recognised on the Company’s Statement of Financial Position when the Company becomes a party to the contractual provisions of the instrument.

A financial asset (unless it is a trade receivable without a significant financing component) or financial liability is initially measured at fair value plus, for an item not at Fair Value Through Profit or Loss (FVTPL), transaction costs that are directly attributable to its acquisition or issue. A trade receivable without a significant financing component is initially measured at the transaction price.

Classification and subsequent measurement

Financial assets

On initial recognition, a financial asset is classified as measured at: amortised cost; Fair Value Through Other Comprehensive Income (FVOCI) or FVTPL.

Financial assets are not reclassified subsequent to their initial recognition unless the Company changes its business model for managing financial assets, in which case all affected financial assets are reclassified on the first day of the first reporting period following the change in the business model.

A financial asset is measured at amortised cost if it meets both of the following conditions and is not designated as at FVTPL:

• it is held within a business model whose objective is to hold assets to collect contractual cash flows; and

• its contractual terms give rise on specified dates to cash flows that are solely payments of principal and interest on the principal amount outstanding.

All financial assets not classified as measured at amortised cost or FVOCI are measured at FVTPL.

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

1. Statement of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

n) Financial Instruments (continued)

Financial assets Business model assessment:

The Company makes an assessment of the objective of the business model in which a financial asset is held at a portfolio level because this best reflects the way the business is managed and information is provided to management.

Financial assets Subsequent measurement and gains and losses:

Financial assets at FVTPL

These assets are subsequently measured at fair value. Net gains and losses, including any interest or dividend income, are recognised in profit or loss.

Financial assets at amortised cost

These assets are subsequently measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method. The amortised cost is reduced by impairment losses. Interest income, foreign exchange gains and losses and impairment are recognised in profit or loss. Any gain or loss on derecognition is recognised in profit or loss.

Financial assets at FVOCI

These assets are subsequently measured at fair value. Interest income calculated using the effective interest method, foreign exchange gains and losses and impairment are recognised in profit or loss. Other net gains and losses are recognised in OCI. On derecognition, gains and losses accumulated in OCI are reclassified to profit or loss.

Financial Liabilities

Loans and payables are financial liabilities initially recognised at fair value less any directly attributable transaction costs as represented by the amounts to be paid in the future for goods or services received. Loans are initially recognised at fair value less any directly attributable transaction costs. Subsequent to initial recognition, loans are measured at amortised cost using the effective interest method.

Derecognition

Financial

assets

The Company derecognises a financial asset when the contractual rights to the cash flows from the financial asset expire, or it transfers the rights to receive the contractual cash flows in a transaction in which substantially all of the risks and rewards of ownership of the financial asset are transferred and no control is retained of the financial asset.

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

1. Statement of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

n) Financial Instruments (continued)

Financial liabilities

The Company derecognises a financial liability when its contractual obligations are discharged or cancelled, or expire. The Company also derecognises a financial liability when its terms are significantly modified. On derecognition of a financial liability, the difference between the carrying amount extinguished and the consideration paid (including any non cash assets transferred orliabilities assumed) is recognised in profit or loss.

Offsetting

Financial assets and financial liabilities are offset and the net amount presented in the statement of financial position when, and only when, the Company currently has a legally enforceable right to set off the amounts and it intends either to settle them on a net basis or to realise the asset and settle the liability simultaneously.

o) Impairment of Assets

Non derivative financial assets

Financial instruments

The Company recognises loss allowances for Expected Credit Losses (ECLs) on financial assets measured at amortised cost.

The Company measures loss allowances at an amount equal to lifetime ECLs.

Loss allowances for trade receivables and contract assets are always measured at an amount equal to lifetime ECLs.

When determining whether the credit risk of a financial asset has increased significantly since initial recognition and when estimating ECLs, the Company considers reasonable and supportable information that is relevant and available without undue cost or effort. This includes both quantitative and qualitative information and analysis, based on the Company’s historical experience and informed credit assessment and including forward looking information.

The Company assumes that the credit risk on a financial asset has increased significantly if it is more than 30 days past due. The Company considers a financial asset to be in default when:

• the borrower is unlikely to pay its credit obligations to the Company in full, without recourse by

• the Company to actions such as realising security (if any is held); or

• the financial asset is more than 90 days past due.

Statement of Significant Accounting Policies

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

1. Statement of Significant Accounting Policies (continued)

o) Impairment of Assets (continued)

Measurement of ECLs

ECLs are a probability weighted estimate of credit losses. Credit losses are measured as the present value of all cash shortfalls (i.e. the difference between the cash flows due to the entity in accordance with the contract and the cash flows that the Company expects to receive).

ECLs are discounted at the effective interest rate of the financial asset.

Presentation of allowance for ECL in the statement of financial position

Loss allowances for financial assets measured at amortised cost are deducted from the gross carrying amount of the assets.

Write off

The gross carrying amount of a financial asset is written off when the Company has no reasonable expectations of recovering a financial asset in its entirety or a portion thereof.

p) Leases

The Company elects to measure Right-of-Use (ROU) asset arising from the application of AASB 16 Leases, to ‘peppercorn’ or concessionary leases at initial recognition at cost, in accordance with AASB 2018 8 Amendments to Australian Accounting Standards Right of Use Assets of Not for Profit Entities

The lease over Lot 5355 Town of Darwin, Unit 11 Unit Plan 89/025 between City of Darwin and Darwin Performing Arts is to provide the premises for the Company to engage in its principal activities. The Company is significantly dependent on the venue to the conduct of a public performing arts and entertainment centre and ancillary purposes.

The term of lease is three years and the rent is AUD $1 per annual. Under the terms of the lease there is an option to renew the lease for two further three years under the same terms and conditions.

ABN 14 009 624 248

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

Note 2022 2021 $ $

Operating Activities

Grant Income 3 1,377,531 1,550,824 Sponsorship 4 10,382 15,301 Interest 1,407 5,852 Venue Rental 290,355 202,420 Technical 312,490 225,316

Front of House 504,516 369,239 Box office 269,252 319,049 Entrepreneurial 5 638,748 587,506 Sundry (includes government stimulus support) 465,498 709,401 Total Revenue and Income 3,870,179 3,984,908 3

City of Darwin 680,000 680,000 Northern Territory Government 670,176 675,060 Other 27,355 195,764 Total Grant Income 1,377,531 1,550,824 4

Office furniture and equipment 21,274 17,946 Property, plant and equipment 163,025 83,885 Motor vehicles 4,157 6,432 Building improvements 10,128 10,117 Total Depreciation 198,584 118,380

ABN 14 009 624 248

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

Amortisation

Note 2022 $ 2021 $

Intangible assets 14,427 16,390

Total Amortisation 14,427 16,390

Total Depreciation and Amortisation 213,011 134,770

7 Employee entitlements

Salaries and employee benefits 1,556,149 1,638,281 Superannuation 159,172 139,850

Total Employee entitlements 1,715,321 1,778,131

Cash on hand 432 452

Bank Balances 1,773,823 1,200,454

Short term deposit 15,000 593,200

Total Cash and Cash Equivalents 1,789,255 1,794,106

Trade receivables 66,477 61,065 Other receivables 28,721 24,349

Prepayments 16,003 5,496

Total Trade and Other Receivables 111,201 90,910

10 Inventories

Bar Stock 36,234 27,580 Technical Inventory 4,347 4,347

Total Inventories 40,581 31,927

Plant and equipment

At Cost 1,812,713 1,369,095 Less accumulated depreciation (1,000,643) (837,618)

Total Plant and equipment 812,070 531,477

Office furniture and equipment

At Cost 193,016 179,616

Less accumulated depreciation (143,838) (122,564)

Total Office furniture and equipment 49,178 57,052

ABN 14 009 624 248

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

Motor vehicles 2022 $ 2021 $

At Cost 39,824 39,824 Less accumulated depreciation (27,354) (23,197) Total Motor vehicles 12,470 16,627

Building improvements

At Cost 101,276 101,276 Less accumulated depreciation (23,183) (13,055) Total Building improvements 78,093 88,221 Total Property, Plant and Equipment 951,811 693,377

(a) Reconciliation of carrying amount as at 30 June 2022

Plant and equipment $

Office furniture and equipment $

Motor Vehicle $

Building Improvemen ts $ Total $

Balance at the beginning of the year 531,477 57,052 16,627 88,221 693,377

Additions 443,618 13,400 - - 457,018

Impairments --Depreciation expense (163,025) (21,274) (4,157) (10,128) (198,584)

Carrying amount at the end of year 812,070 49,178 12,470 78,093 951,811

(b) Reconciliation of carrying amount as at 30 June 2021

Plant and equipment $

Office furniture and equipment $

Motor Vehicle $

Building Improvemen ts $ Total $

Balance at the beginning of the year 804,768 35,026 23,059 78,537 941,390

Additions 37,094 39,972 19,801 96,867

Impairments (226,500) (226,500) Depreciation expense (83,885) (17,946) (6,432) (10,117) (118,380)

Carrying amount at the end of year 531,477 57,052 16,627 88,221 693,377

ABN 14 009 624 248

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

12 Intangible Assets

Computer software 2022 $ 2021 $ At Cost 133,224 133,224 Accumulated Amortisation (116,148) (101,722) Total Computer software 17,076 31,502

Movements in Carrying Amounts

Balance at the beginning of the year 31,502 30,658 Additions 17,234 Amortisation (14,426) (16,390) Balance at 30 June 17,076 31,502

13 Trade and Other Payables

Trade Payables 317,593 375,856 Contract liabilities 429,001 40,108 Hirers' control 694,328 558,065 Other Payroll liabilities 27,207 48,211 Total Trade Payables 1,468,129 1,022,240

14 Employee Benefits

Current employee benefits 78,684 65,074 Non current employee benefits 51,263 32,031 Total current employee benefits 129,947 97,105

Short term employee benefits are obligations expected to be settled wholly before 12 months after the end of the annual reporting period in which the employees render the related service.

15 Related Party Transactions

There were no other transactions during the year between any director and the Company other than on normal commercial terms except as noted in (a) below.

(a) Complimentary Tickets 2022 2021 $ $

David de Silva - 366

Clare Martin 142

Neville Pantazis 768 854

Terri Layman - 32

Wendy Ludwig 110 584

John Glenn - 15

Charlie FalangaJane De Gault

Total 1,020 1,851

ABN 14 009 624 248

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

15 Related Party Transactions (Continued)

(b) Key management compensation

Key management personnel of the Company are those persons having authority and responsibility for planning, directing and controlling activities of the Company. The aggregate compensation of key management personnel of the Company is set out below: 2022 2021 $ $

Short-term employee benefits 201,148 184,354

Post employment benefits 19,999 17,056

Total Key Management Compensation 221,147 201,410

17 Centre Operational Costs

In addition to the operational costs contained within the Company’s financial statements, the City of Darwin and the Northern Territory Government jointly maintain the building and fixtures used by the Company in its operations. A funding pool of $120,000 per annum from each source is managed by a Project Control Group (PCG) within NT Government. The PCG has representation from NT Government, City of Darwin and the Company. The PCG provides funding and oversight to all maintenance associated with the building and fixtures not owned by the Company. City of Darwin provides the building and fixtures at no cost to the Company. Additional reviews and consultancies conducted for the Company on behalf of the City of Darwin were also funded by the City of Darwin.

18 Members' Guarantee

The Company is limited by guarantee. If the Company is wound up, the Constitution states that each member is required to contribute a maximum of $10 each towards any outstanding obligations of the Company. At 30 June 2022, the number of members was 21 (2021: 22).

ABN 14 009 624 248

Notes to the Financial Statements

For the Year Ended 30 June 2022

19 Financial Instruments

Note 2022 2021

Financial assets measured at amortised cost $ $ Cash and cash equivalents 8 1,789,255 1,794,106 Trade and other receivables 9 111,201 90,910 1,900,456 1,885,016

Financial liabilities measured at amortised cost Trade and other payables 13 1,468,129 1,022,240 1,468,129 1,022,240

The company manages its interest rate risk by ensuring cash is invested in short term deposits at a fixed interest rate with reputable financial institutions.

20 Contingent liabilities and commitments

The Company did not have any contingencies and commitments to disclose as at 30 June 2022 and 30 June 2021.

21 Subsequent events

No major matters or circumstances, have arisen since the end of the financial year which significantly affect or may affect the operations of the Company, the results of those operations or the state or affairs of the Company in future financial years.

Independent Auditor’s Report

To the members of Darwin Performing Arts Centre trading as Darwin Entertainment Centre

Opinion

We have audited the Financial Report of Darwin Performing Arts Centre trading as Darwin Entertainment Centre (the Company).

In our opinion, the accompanying Financial Report of the Company is in accordance with the Division 60 of the Australian Charities and Not for profits Commission (ACNC) Act 2012, including:

• giving a true and fair view of the Company's financial position as at 30 June 2022 and of its financial performance for the year ended on that date; and

• complying with Australian Accounting Standards Simplified Disclosures Framework and Division 60 of the Australian Charities and Not for profits Commission Regulation 2013

Basis for opinion

The Financial Report comprises:

• Statement of financial position as at 30 June 2022

• Statement of profit or loss and other comprehensive income, Statement of changes in equity, and Statement of cash flows for the year then ended

• Notes including a summary of significant accounting policies

• Directors’ declaration

We conducted our audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion.

Our responsibilities under those standards are further described in the Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report section of our report.

We are independent of the Company in accordance with the ethical requirements of the ACNC Act 2012 and the ethical requirements of Accounting Professional and Ethical Standards Board’s APES 110 Code of Ethics for Professional Accountants (including Independence Standards) (the Code) that are relevant to our audit of the Financial Report in Australia. We have fulfilled our other ethical responsibilities in accordance with the Code

We confirm that the independence declaration required by the Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission (ACNC) Act 2012, which has been given to the Directors of Darwin Performing Arts Centre trading as Darwin Entertainment Centre, would be in the same terms if given to the Directors as at the time of this Auditor’s Report

Responsibilities of the Directors for the Financial Report

The Directors are responsible for:

• preparing the Financial Report that gives a true and fair view in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards – Simplified Disclosures Framework and the ACNC.

• implementing necessary internal control to enable the preparation of a Financial Report that gives a true and fair view and is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error

• assessing the ability of the Company to continue as a going concern and whether the use of the going concern basis of accounting is appropriate. This includes disclosing, as applicable, matters related to going concern and using the going concern basis of accounting unless they either intend to liquidate the Company or to cease operations, or have no realistic alternative but to do so.

Auditor’s responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report

Our objective is:

• to obtain reasonable assurance about whether Financial report as a whole is free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error; and

• to issue an Auditor’s Report that includes our opinion.

Reasonable assurance is a high level of assurance, but is not a guarantee that an audit conducted in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards will always detect a material misstatement when it exists. Misstatements can arise from fraud or error. They are considered material if, individually or in the aggregate, they could reasonably be expected to influence the economic decisions of users taken on the basis of this Financial Report

As part of an audit in accordance with Australian Auditing Standards, we exercise professional judgement and maintain professional scepticism throughout the audit

A further description of our responsibilities for the audit of the Financial Report is located at the Auditing and Assurance Standards Board website at: http://www.auasb.gov.au/auditors_responsibilities/ar4.pdf.

This description forms part of our Auditor’s Report.

We also:

i. Identify and assess the risks of material misstatement of the Financial Report, whether due to fraud or error, design and perform audit procedures responsive to those risks, and obtain audit evidence that is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our opinion. The risk of not detecting a material misstatement resulting from fraud is higher than for one resulting from error, as fraud may involve collusion, forgery, intentional omissions, misrepresentations, or the override of internal control.

ii. Obtain an understanding of internal control relevant to the audit in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company's internal control.

iii. Evaluate the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates and related disclosures made by the Directors.

iv. Conclude on the appropriateness of the Directors' use of the going concern basis of accounting and, based on the audit evidence obtained, whether a material uncertainty exists related to events or conditions that may cast significant doubt on the Company's ability to continue as a going concern. If we conclude that a material uncertainty exists, we are required to draw attention in our Auditor's Report to the related disclosures in the Financial Report or, if such disclosures are inadequate, to modify our opinion. Our conclusions are based on the audit evidence obtained up to the date of our Auditor's Report. However, future events or conditions may cause the Company to cease to continue as a going concern.

v. Evaluate the overall presentation, structure and content of the Financial Report, including the disclosures, and whether the Financial Report represents the underlying transactions and events in a manner that achieves fair presentation.

We communicate with the Directors of the Company regarding, among other matters, the planned scope and timing of the audit and significant audit findings, including any significant deficiencies in internal control that we identify during our audit.

Luke Snowdon Partner Darwin 1 December 2022

KPMG

Auditor’s Independence Declaration under subdivision 60

C section 60 40 of Australian Charities and Not for-profits Commission Act 2012

To the Directors of Darwin Performing Arts Centre

I declare that, to the best of my knowledge and belief, in relation to the audit for the financial year ended 30 June 2022 there have been:

i. no contraventions of the auditor independence requirements as set out in the Australian Charities and Not-for profits Commission Act 2012 in relation to the audit; and

ii. no contraventions of any applicable code of professional conduct in relation to the audit.

KPMG

Luke Snowdon Partner Darwin 30 November 2022 KPM_INI_01 PAR_SIG_01 PAR_NAM_01 PAR_POS_01 PAR_DAT_01 PAR_CIT_01

KPMG, an Australian partnership and a member firm of the KPMG network of independent member firms affiliated with KPMG International Cooperative (“KPMG International”), a Swiss entity

Liability limited by a scheme approved under Professional Standards Legislation.