There will be Only One

"Perth's two main theatre companies are considering merging ahead of their move into the Heath Ledger Theatre in 2010."

This is the first paragraph in an article in todays West (Thursday 7th, page 19). It would appear that the companies Black Swan and PTC (Perth Theatre Company) are debating the merits of forming one mega-company. Mind you, this merger was recommended back in 1999 in the Nugent enquiry re the state of performing arts in WA.

This would leave WA with Two major companies - a single Perth Group and the current Fremantle base Deckchair Theatre. The merger is not a result of the impending move however as the State Government has made plans and is building space for both companies in the new theatre located on the southern edge of Northbridge. Nor is there external pressures from other parties.

The benefits of a merger are stated as being "able to build a higher national profile, get more value from a combined annual taxpayer funding of about $2 million" and a stronger focus on improved productions and diversity.

While a 'memorandum of understanding' has been agreed to outlining the conditions of a possible merger, both sides have said it is not a done deal, just one of a number of options they were considering in a plan to increase integration between the groups.

One for all ...