Until recently, my thoughts about plays on the Brisbane stage were reserved for friends. But my private reviews tended to end with friends asking, "How do you find out about these plays?”
Over time, I realised that there are few theatre review websites and they mostly focus on the works of major theatre companies and/or community based groups. They often overlook the surprising productions created by small, independent, professional theatre companies. They seldom provide a flavour of what particular venues have to offer.
Regional, national and international theatre partnerships are helping to ensure that Brisbane audiences have the opportunity to see some of the best performances, whether local or from interstate or overseas. But unless you happen to be “in the know” in the Brisbane theatre scene, you may not appreciate what it has to offer.
I hope Curtain Up's reviews will encourage you to see plays which you would otherwise not see - whether mainstream or fringe. And if you happen to read the reviews too late to see the plays, perhaps they will give you some insight into what particular venues have to offer.
(September 2009)
The Magic of Live Theatre
Live, intimate theatre affords the artist an opportunity to connect with the audience on a personal level. Depending on the theatre piece, you may find yourself laughing out loud or sheding a tear, as a natural impulse, without an immediate appreciation of why you are responding in this way. You may find yourself dreaming of the past, present or future. You may find yourself reflecting on your life and the lives or the lives of others. You may be forced to confront your innermost fears and desires or to question and debate your accepted beliefs and judgments. You may also find you are laughing in response to life's adversity and that your tears are merely a realisation of simple, honest truths. But you will be all the better for the experience. (Curtain Up)
