The Theatrical Band-wagon

The new Flagship Theatre, Centre Stage, (Northbridge Perth) has had a strikingly positive effect on two main theatrical companies, those that are taking up residence in the theatre of course. Both Black Swan and Perth Theatre Company (PTC) recently unveiled 6 & 5 show seasons for 2007 respectively, which for both is one more than previous years. PTC themselves are lining up three contemporary international plays. Artistic Director Alan Becher plans to go against the grain of WA Theatre and produce more overseas productions.

"While local playwrigthing has proliferated, world theatre has been neglegted. We no longer see regularly on our stages the classic plays and few contemporary writers from Europe and the United States." Alan sees the importance in seeing and understanding what is going on in the global world of theatre and not isolating ourselves.

Black Swan and the Playhouse

Black Swan will be presenting their shows at the Playhouse Theatre, which incidentally will close after 2008. Sad news indeed, but with the development of Centre Stage, the poor Playhouse, tucked away as it is in the middle of Perth's CBD, will be no competition. I have found memories of performing at the Playhouse. Personally, I do not see the need to close it down at all, but that is another story.

None-the-less, Black Swan will have the Playhouse and PTC will be using various locations throughout the year, the Playhouse being just one. Other locations include the Perth Institute of Contemporary Arts and Downstairs @ His Maj. They will also be teaming up (again) with Red Ryder Productions for their September Season.

PTC Season Dates

Bombshells - Johanna Murray Smith - April 28 to May 12 - Playhouse

The Goat, or Who is Sylvia - Edward Albee - June 2 to 23 - PICA

St Nicholas - Conor McPherson - July 7 to 28 - Downstairs @ His Maj

Loveplay - Moira Buffini - w Red Ryder- September 15 to October 6 - PICA

Baby Boomer Blues - Alan Becher - October 27 to November 17 - Downstairs @ The Maj

Black Swan Season Dates

The Lady Aoi - Feburary 2 to 17

The Laramie Project  - March 16 to April 5

The Crucible - May 19 to June 2

The Messiah - June 30 to July 22

Life x3 - September 1 to 16

Honour - October 20 to November 4

Jeff Watkins
Inspired by Stephen Bevis in West Australian, Thursday 13th 2006.