Eight arts professionals from six different countries will be able to attend the Decibel Performing Arts Showcase in Manchester, after winning bursaries as part of the Visiting Arts International Connections scheme. The International Connections programme will enable the selected experts to share their experience with UK-based arts professionals at the biennial Decibel showcase, which aims to promote diverse practice in the performing arts sector. The bursary recipients are from Australia, Holland, USA, India, New Zealand and China. Decibel aims to offer an opportunity for artists and arts organisations to preview extracts from, or pitches of, new tour-ready or developing work. Nike Jonah, Decibel Performing Arts Showcase Project Manager at Arts Council England, said: “International Connections encourages the sharing of best practice in the international performing arts, while at the same time enabling overseas professionals to see the excellent work being made by artists from diverse backgrounds in England”.