Calling Local Creatives to Take Centre Stage!
Newcastle's creative and performing arts community are invited to express their interest in presenting new and reimagined works in Civic Theatre's intimate Playhouse Theatre in 2024.
Up to four shows will be selected as part of UpStage at The Playhouse, a new local program that will see each show offered a two-week placement in the atmospheric 195-seat Playhouse, which is co-located in the same building at the iconic Civic Theatre.
Newcastle Lord Mayor Nuatali Nelmes said City of Newcastle is committed to providing a platform for local creatives while also boosting what's on offer to the local community.
Chair of City of Newcastle’s Community and Culture Advisory Committee, Councillor Carol Duncan, said Newcastle is attracting a new wave of creatives.
"The timing is right for a local program like Upstage at The Playhouse with talent emerging in the region needing a launching pad. We look forward to seeing what comes through from the expressions of interest to form the 2024 program," Cr Duncan said.
Civic Theatre Manager Leonie Wallace said the program, which will take to the stage in March 2024, is all about local shows for local audiences.
“We piloted the program last year, and local theatre production company Tantrum Youth Arts was successful with their production Good Mourning, which will be presented as part of City of Newcastle’s New Annual festival this month," Ms Wallace said.
Tantrum Creative Director Penelope Kentish said Upstage at The Playhouse gives local theatre companies the opportunity to be part of something bigger.
"To have the support and investment from Civic Theatre in new Australian work is paramount for the early career artists we work with, to build and sustain their careers in Newcastle and have local audiences share in their stories.
Good Mourning at The Playhouse will play from 22 to 23 September as part of New Annual, in partnership with Civic Theatre (visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au for tickets).
Expressions of interest are now open and close on Friday, 15 September 2023. To register your interest, visit www.civictheatrenewcastle.com.au/community/upstage.
