Funding crunch threatens Queen of Paradise Orchestra’s historic Jayapura tour

Financial constraints remain a critical hurdle for Vanimo’s Queen of Paradise Orchestra as the young musicians prepare for their maiden international performance in Jayapura, Indonesia, scheduled for the coming weeks.

Orchestra program head Fr Martin Prado recently returned from the Indonesian provincial capital after securing concert venues and finalizing preliminary logistics. However, securing full financial backing remains an urgent priority.

Speaking to NBC News, Fr Martin appealed to the West Sepik provincial government, local district administrations, and national political leaders to step forward and support the youth ensemble.

"We are still looking for funds, hoping that we will receive some help from the district and the province," Fr Martin said.

The planned tour marks the orchestra’s first performance beyond Papua New Guinea’s borders, serving as a platform to showcase local musical talent and foster cross-border cultural ties between West Sepik and neighboring Papua Province.

Fr Martin emphasized that the cross-border engagement offers invaluable international exposure for the young Vanimo musicians, while reinforcing positive youth development through the arts.

In addition to state and provincial support, management is appealing to corporate sponsors and private donors to assist with travel and operational expenses ahead of their departure.