By Staff Writer

The innovative Test Drive the Arts program launched today by Arts Victoria is designed to make the arts more accessible to the public.

Through the program, twenty six leading Victorian performing arts organisations and venues are offering around 2500 free tickets valued at more than $100,000 to first timers and those who have not experienced the arts for more than three years.

Participating arts companies and venues range from Australian and Victorian icons, including Opera Australia, The Australian Ballet, Circus Oz and Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, to local and regional centres, such as The Capital in Bendigo.

Victorian Arts Minister Lynne Kosky said the program was part of the State Government’s commitment to developing and supporting the local arts scene.

"The Brumby Government is taking action to ensure Victorian continues to be the home to some of the country’s most well respected and exciting artists and arts companies, and hosts a jam-packed calendar of arts events," Kosky said.

"This is a great new program that opens up access to the arts, encourages people to try something new, and supports out fantastic local arts companies to reach out to new audiences."

Created in the UK by marketing agency Arts About Manchester, Test Drive the Arts has already been adopted by New Zealand, Queensland and South Australia.

All Victorian residents aged 18 and over can register online for two free ‘test drive’ tickets.

For more information or to register visit the Test Drive the Arts website.