March into Autumn at ATYP 🍂
How to sum up what’s happening as we sail into this month? “Things are hotting up” feels appropriate for today – it’s supposed to hit 39 degrees here in Sydney. “The party’s in full swing” also sums up the general atmosphere in this part of the world as everyone floats high on the joy and acceptance that Sydney WorldPride has brought to the city. But for now, I’ll go with: “Come and March with us!”
If you’ve seen The Resistance that’s closing 11 March, you’ll know what I’m talking about. Kip Chapman’s joyous new production is equal parts party and protest. As one of the many rave reviews phrased it: “For a show all about politics, anger and potential global disaster, The Resistance is somehow so damn likeable!” Get your tickets now because if you miss it in Sydney you’ll have to fly to Auckland to catch it.
On Sunday 5 March, people packed into The Rebel Theatre for RIGHT HERE – STORIES FROM THE HEART, a celebration of new work by LGBTQIA+ teenagers, presented in partnership with Sydney WorldPride, supported by Wear it Purple. Eight young artists were paired with leading Queer industry professionals to create performances that spoke to their experience of the world. It’s hard to convey the love and respect that filled the theatre during and after the performances. It was a privilege to be a part of it.
Of course for young people keen to be involved in the national youth theatre company, now is the time to start looking towards school holiday workshops (for those in regional areas or interstate) or for weekly workshops for anyone based in or around Sydney. Our Workshop Manager Claudene has a spectacular program to engage anyone of primary or secondary school age. Have a look on the workshops page of the website for details.
We would like to do a quick shout-out to playwright Julian Larnach, our production partners Archipelago Productions, director Ben Winspear and the cast and crew of Past the Shallows. The Tasmanian Theatre Awards were held last night and our beautiful production scooped the pool, winning ‘Best New Writing’, ‘Best Ensemble’, ‘Best Direction’ and ‘Best Production (Professional Theatre)’!
If you want to catch the next award-winning ATYP production, tickets will go on sale soon for CUSP by Mary Anne Butler. This critically acclaimed story of three teenagers on the brink of adult responsibilities is having a limited two-week season at The Rebel Theatre before it begins its national tour. Presented in partnership with Brown’s Mart and Artback NT, this show is a blunt reminder of the exceptional talent of young performers at their very best. Don’t miss it.
Fraser
Artistic Director & CEO