Nearly 12 months ago Orange Civic Theatre closed its doors and it had been a long wait for them to re-open.
But the future is bright after the theatre resumed regular programming on the weekend with (COVID safe) sold-out shows for Sydney Theatre Company's ever popular 'Wharf Revue'.
This marks the start of the Theatre's 2021 season. Originally scheduled for November 2020 the 'Wharf Revue', like many productions, was cancelled or postponed due to COVID restrictions.
Spirit- a retrospective 2021 – Bangarra-The Headland at Barangaroo Reserve by Daniel Boud
Orange Mayor Reg Kidd said with COVID safe protocols in place the Theatre was delighted to offer an exciting program for the year ahead.
"It has been wonderful to be able to welcome the community back into the Theatre and share in the joy of a shared, live experience," he said.
"Looking at what's already on offer for 2021, there is a huge variety.
'I would like to thank our subscribers and regular theatre goers who continued to support us last year"
There is a new approach to the Orange Civic Theatre season in 2021.
Orange City Council's Services Policy Committee Chair Scott Munro said the theatre was able to announce shows a few months ahead, rather than the usual, annual subscription season launch.
Cr Munro said audiences needed to be aware the capacity of the theatre could change at any moment in line with public health orders.
"I'm so pleased we've reached this milestone where we can have fairly regular, scheduled events at the theatre albeit with a capacity of 75 per cent," Cr Munro said.
Orange City Council's Performing Arts and Venues Manager, Michelle Pearce said the program for 2021 was ever evolving.
"At the moment it's a moveable feast," she said.
"As the theatre world begins to return to 'normal' we are constantly being offered new shows.
"So that we can deliver the best possible program we will be updating our program in four-monthly blocks rather than producing a subscription booklet."
"We're also moving to social media as our main vehicle for advertising and plan to develop behind the scenes conversations with directors, producers and actors for many of our shows and encourage the community to follow us on Facebook".
Confirmed programs include:
- Spirit- A Retrospective - by Bangarra Dance Theatre, Australia's leading Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander performing arts company
- The Very Hungry Caterpillar - based on one of the most- read and famous children's books of all time for children - and young at heart.
- Mono - A Three Person One Man Show - a comedy starring legendary Australian actors Max Gillies, Jean Kittson and John Wood
- Nexas Quartet Tango de Saxos - imagine you are in Buenos Aires and join this journey through the history of Tango as part Orange Chamber Music Festival - Friday 9 April
- Beauty and the Beast - Orange Theatre Company's production of this Disney international sensation is sure to wow audiences.
Full details of what's on at the Orange Civic Theatre can be found on Council's website or by phoning the Theatre on 02 938112.
