The performing arts sector covers theatre, musical theatre, dance, opera, puppetry, mime, carnival, street and circus arts as well as all the support functions and roles which bring these art forms to the fore.
The industry is highly diverse and includes players ranging from large commercial companies to small and microfirm groups who may be dependent on both public and private financial support.
Literature includes a mixture of professional and aspiring freelance screenwriters, novelists, poets and playwrights and, in terms of participatory activity, is one of the most popular creative pursuits through individual reading, book groups and creative writing groups. The visual arts industry covers a range of art forms, including painting, sculpture, photography and new media.