State announces new program to support older performers

Social Equality Minister Gila Gamliel unveiled a new initiative to help veteran artists who are struggling financially, announcing that some 4.5 million shekels ($1.2 million) will go toward funding new performances by them.

Gamliel said Wednesday the plan aims to provide financial security for veteran artists who once earning their livings by performing but no longer have regular work. It caters specifically to those aged 50 and over who have to rely on friends and family to make ends meet.

The ministry plans to hire such artists to perform at cultural events nationwide through an online bidding process. To qualify, the artists would have to prove that they took part in other paid performances that ran for at least 70 minutes and were held in large venues.

"It is a great privilege to honor those who have contributed so much to the cultural enrichment of our nation over the years, performers whose work is a treasured part of heritage," Gamliel said on Wednesday. "Those artists want only one thing -- to make a decent living in their trade. The Social Equality Ministry will continue working toward that end."