making theatre "mainstream"...

Having just gone through the "most successful Adelaide Fringe ever" when just about everybody was offering two for one deals even on Saturday nights I sympathise. We broke even which is better than most did. People go to stuff they won't normally go to during Fringe but the Festival keeps growing and even with tourism there are only so many people to try to get into your theatre. 600 acts this year and that was just the fringe add the festival (which attracts most of the tourism) and wow!!! We work as co-op equity model which means sometimes we make money sometimes we don't. We don't rip people off if there's money we all share equally. Its getting to be the thing in Adelaide. Fully pro is harder and does require funding. But back to the issue. Neville I get your point about telling Australian stories in Australian ways but the audiences seem more comfie with old stories than new. Even old Aussie stories get better audiences than new ones and didn't I hear that Williamson has given up writing for the stage. I have a vague memory somewhere. That leaves us Nowra doesn't it plus all the borderline writers including (modestly) myself. Publicity is good when it's focused and also marketes the company and venue. You've got to build the habit of seeing your shows among the audience. Na We have the same issues her in Adelaide with the media but you've got to convince them you're releases will sell a few papers and buying advertising doesn't hurt if you want editorial but I'm sure I'm preaching to the choir. Sorry. Way off original line.