Arts Theatre’s next big step

Brisbane Arts Theatre is going semi-professional next year.

The 80-year-old theatre company has been the city’s gateway theatre for decades through its 50-year-old venue on Petrie Terrace.

Throughout its history, Brisbane Arts Theatre has served as the gateway to performing arts careers, not just for those on stage, but also for those behind the scenes.

The list of actors on stage and screen who began their journey on the Arts Theatre’s stage includes Carol Burns, Russell Dykstra, Kate Foy, Jennifer Flowers, Anna McGahan, Lucas Stibbard, Steven Rook and Shane Porteous are just some of the household names, while many technicians have gone onto professional careers in lighting, sound and set design.

Even politicians have both trod the boards of the Arts Theatre - Kate Jones, Queensland Minister for Education, and Wayne Goss, 34th Premier of Queensland.

The company’s Artistic Director, John Boyce, is eager for the company’s progression. “While Brisbane Arts Theatre will leave behind its amateur status in 2017, we’ll be expanding and refining our opportunities for future performing arts professionals to train and develop.”

He adds, “We are re-establishing the Arts Theatre’s place as one of Australia’s most prolific and iconic theatre companies.”

Brisbane Arts Theatre has called for applications for its inaugural stock company of performers and technical personnel for 2017, while open auditions will continue throughout each year for ensemble roles and performers on its children’s theatre stage. The details can be found at artstheatre.com.au/auditions.

The Arts Theatre's 2017 season will be announced in September