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  • REVIEW: Antigone - La Boite Theatre

    Cast : Maddison Burridge, Billy Fogarty, Hayden Spencer Playwright: Sophocles Co-Directors: Courtney Stewart & Nigel Poulton Dramaturgy : Courtney Stewart & Brady Watkins Set & Costume Designer: Josh McIntosh Composer & Sound Designer: Brady Watkins Lighting Designer: Teegan Kranenburg Photography: Dean Hanson Photography / Jacqueline Bawtree “No man can foretell his fate.” More than two millennia after it was first written, Sophocles’ Antigone  still speaks with unsettling timeliness. In La Boite Theatre’s striking new staging, co-directors Courtney Stewart  and Nigel Poulton  have crafted a production that explores authoritarianism , defiance, grief and the dangerous rigidity of single-minded convictions. It is theatre that asks its audience to listen carefully, think deeply, and confront the consequences directly.   The play unfolds in the immediate aftermath of a civil war. Antigone’s brothers, the princes Polyneices and Eteocles, have killed each other in battle, leaving their city of Thebes fractured. These fallen princes are henceforth embodied through cloak and helm. The newly crowned king, Creon — Antigone’s uncle — declares one a hero deserving burial and the other a traitor condemned to rot unburied as a warning to the state. What follows is not merely a family dispute, but a collision of principles. Even for audiences unfamiliar with Greek tragedy, the central conflicts are immediately clear and strikingly recognisable today: loyalty versus law, conscience versus authority, the will of the people against the pride of the ruler. The directors frame this ancient dilemma through a highly physical theatrical language that draws on Poulton's action-based performance practice. In this world, the body is never neutral. Characters move continuously through the roundhouse space in shifting choreographic patterns. Bodies crouch, crawl, bow, rise and fall across the levels of the set, embodying the forces that constrain and compel them. The visual world of the production is striking in its clarity and symbolism. At the centre of the stage sits a circular platform carved with a shallow, sunken grave. Josh McIntosh’s set design features a pale stone surface etched with fissures that evoke ancient marble, while the vertical layers glow with warm clay tones. The design creates the impression of an arena — part burial site, part civic forum — where private grief and public judgement collide. A raised walkway and stepped platforms extend from the circle, allowing characters to ascend above the action or descend toward the grave. From a narrow opening above, dusty pebbles periodically rain down into the pit. The roundhouse seating reinforces the production’s themes of public debate, with characters frequently addressing the audience directly as though speaking before a civic assembly. The audience becomes witness, jury and citizen all at once. Suspended above the stage, a ring of lighting reflects the circular shape below, casting cool blue washes and sharp spotlights that isolate characters in moments of confrontation or reflection. Teegan Kranenburg’s  lighting design heightens this effect, especially in the electrifying appearance of the blind prophet Teiresias, where sharp strobe moments fracture the space in flashes of foreboding. The costumes, also designed by Josh McIntosh , perfectly align with the production’s “modern myth” aesthetic — one particularly committed audience member even arriving in a toga on opening night. The flowing silhouettes and soft, neutral fabrics reflect the drapery of ancient Greece, yet maintain a contemporary style in their cut and transparency. Hayden Spencer’s Creon sports a tailored vest decorated with a medal, evoking modern military authority and political clout. The soundscape by Brady Watkins  is particularly effective, layering heartbeats, rumblings, distant screams and choral textures that echo through the theatre. These moments often feel like the pulse of the story itself, amplifying the tension between the human and the mythic. Transitions are underscored by voiceovers of Sophocles’ words, grounding the production firmly in its classical origins even as the staging speaks in a contemporary theatrical language. The ensemble of three is a mighty force. At the forefront stands the sensational Maddison Burridge  as Antigone. She brings composure and emotional depth to Antigone’s grief, love, and fierce moral conviction. Antigone’s defiance does not stem from stubbornness but from an unwavering sense of justice, and Burridge allows that humanity to shine through the text’s formal language. Her declaration, “Our work is never finished. Our tears never dry,” resonates with a haunting impact.   Billy Fogarty  moves fluidly between roles as Ismene, Haimon, Teiresias and the Sentry, demonstrating remarkable versatility. As Ismene, they convey the tension between loyalty and fear with sensitivity, while their turn as the bumbling Sentry provides flashes of comic relief. The Sentry's nervous, long-winded attempts to report to the king are played with deliberate hilarity. As Haimon, however, Fogarty delivers one of the evening’s most compelling exchanges opposite Creon, arguing passionately for logic and the voice of the people. Their confrontation becomes a heated debate between generational reason and authoritarian certainty. Hayden Spencer commands the stage with a Creon whose authority and pride are felt in every word. He knows he does not need to overplay dominance; it is embedded in his person and vocal precision. He spits out the words “woman” or “girl” with palpable disdain; you can almost see the misogyny dripping off his tongue. Antigone in turn responds with equal bitterness when mentioning “men,” underlining the play’s inherent battle of the sexes. Spencer also finds flashes of dark humour within Creon’s demeanour, often in a mocking tone. The production’s dramaturgy, credited to Courtney Stewart  and Brady Watkins , draws thoughtful connections between Sophocles’ text and the contemporary world. At one point Antigone sheds her mythical origins to speak directly to our modern challenges, naming women across the globe who continue to pursue justice and dignity today. It is a reminder that Antigone is not a singular figure of the past but one voice in a long line of resistance since. The language of Sophocles is intricate and philosophical, and the production refrains from simplifying its intellectual complexity. Instead, it trusts the audience to engage. For seventy focused minutes, the play asks for attention, patience and thoughtfulness, and rewards it with moments of startling stagecraft. The questions posed by Antigone remain painfully familiar. What happens when leaders equate disagreement with disloyalty? When pride outweighs compassion? As one line reminds us, “All men make mistakes, but a good man yields when he knows his course is wrong… the only crime is pride.”   La Boite’s production does not offer easy answers. Instead, it invites audiences to sit within the complexity of opposing truths. In doing so, it demonstrates why this ancient tragedy continues to resonate across millennia: because the struggle between authority and conscience is never truly resolved. In this powerful staging, Sophocles’ tragic story feels less like a relic of the past and more like a mirror held up to the present.

  • AUDITION NOTICE: Frozen - Cope Creative

    Title:  Frozen Presented By:  Cope Creative Genre:  Musical Theatre Synopsis: Inspired by the beloved Disney story, Frozen – The Broadway Musical transports audiences to the kingdom of Arendelle, where sisters Elsa and Anna must navigate love, fear, and the power of family. When Elsa’s magical powers spiral out of control, she isolates herself from the world, leaving Anna to embark on a dangerous journey to bring her sister home. Filled with spectacular theatrical moments and unforgettable music, this production celebrates adventure, heart, and the magic of storytelling. Audition Date: Video auditions open Thursday 5th March 2026 and close Thursday 26th March 2026. Callbacks: Sunday 29th March 2026 Audition Time: Callbacks 10AM - 4PM Audition Location and Address: Callbacks held in person (location provided to successful applicants). Audition Self-Tape Due: Thursday 26th March 2026 Audition Registration: Submit via the Audition Form HERE Audition Pack: Audition materials (dance, sheet music, and backing tracks) HERE Performance Dates: 5th –7th June 2026 Performance Times: Friday - 6PM Saturday – 1PM & 6PM Sunday – 1PM Performance Location: The Events Centre Caloundra, 20 Minchinton St, Caloundra QLD 4551 Rehearsal Dates: 29th March – 5th June 2026 Rehearsal Times: Sundays 10AM - 4PM Thursdays 6PM - 9PM Tech Week: 3rd June 2026 – 9AM – 9PM 4th June 2026 – 11AM – 9PM 5th June 2026 – 11AM – 9PM Rehearsal Location: Sunshine Coast (venue details provided to cast). Warnings: This production includes theatrical haze, strobe lighting effects, loud music, and pyrotechnics. Performer Age: Main cast - 18+ Youth roles - Ages 8–13 (Young Elsa and Young Anna; double cast). Creative Team: Director - Riley Cope Production Website: Cope Creative - Frozen Other Information: This production is presented under a community theatre model and is a voluntary performance opportunity. Callbacks will include singing, acting, and dancing. Performers must be available for rehearsals, tech week, and performances. The show runs approximately 2.5 hours with a 20-minute interval. Contact - producer@copecreative.com.au Available Roles / Character Breakdown: Elsa (Female) – Future Queen of Arendelle and Anna’s older sister, born with magical powers she fears she cannot control. Vocal Range: E3–Eb5. Anna (Female) – Princess of Arendelle; optimistic, warm-hearted, and determined to reconnect with her sister. Vocal Range: G3–E5. Kristoff (Male) – A hardworking ice harvester with a tough exterior and a loyal heart. Vocal Range: A2–Bb4. Prince Hans (Male) – Charming and ambitious prince of the Southern Isles. Vocal Range: A2–A4. Olaf – A magical snowman with childlike innocence and boundless enthusiasm. Vocal Range: E3–Eb5. Sven – Kristoff’s loyal reindeer companion. Oaken (Male) – Cheerful shopkeeper and champion of hygge. Vocal Range: A2–Bb4. Weselton (Male) – Duke from a neighboring kingdom; judgmental and opportunistic. Vocal Range: F3–A4. Queen Iduna (Female) – Elsa and Anna’s compassionate mother. Vocal Range: F3–E5. King Agnarr (Male) – Protective father of Elsa and Anna. Vocal Range: B2–C4. Pabbie (Male) – Wise shaman and patriarch of the Hidden Folk. Vocal Range: Ab2–Gb4. Bulda (Female) – Warm and nurturing matriarch of the Hidden Folk. Vocal Range: Bb3–D5. Young Elsa (Female, 8–12) – Elsa as a child discovering her magical powers. Vocal Range: A3–E5. Young Anna (Female, 8–12) – Anna as a child, energetic and fascinated by Elsa’s magic. Vocal Range: Bb3–E5. Ensemble – Townspeople, guards, palace staff, Hidden Folk, Oaken’s family and friends, and other featured roles. Ensemble members sing, dance, and portray multiple characters throughout the show.

  • AUDITION NOTICE: Billy Liar - Act 1 Theatre

    Title:  Billy Liar Presented By:  Act 1 Theatre Genre:  Comedy / Drama Synopsis: Billy Liar follows Billy Fisher, a young man stuck in a dull Northern English town whose vivid imagination offers him an escape from reality. Billy constantly invents elaborate fantasies and lies to cope with his frustrations, juggling relationships, work, and family expectations while dreaming of a more exciting life elsewhere. The story humorously and poignantly explores ambition, honesty, and the tension between fantasy and reality. Audition Dates: Sunday 22nd March Tuesday 24th March Audition Time:   Sunday - 11AM Tuesday - 7PM Audition Location and Address:  Act 1 Theatre, 238 Gympie Rd, Strathpine QLD 4500 Audition Requirements: Auditions will be conducted by cold read from the script. All performers must be able to perform with a Northern English accent. Audition Registration: Please contact Debbie Hossack on 0431 843 887 or email debkhossack@gmail.com ​if you need more information Performance Dates:  June 5th - 21st, 2026 Performance Location: Act 1 Theatre, 238 Gympie Rd, Strathpine QLD 4500 Performer Age: 18+ Creative Team: Director - John Sayles Production Website: Act 1 Theatre - Billy Liar Other Information: The production requires Northern English accents for all roles. The cast consists of 5 women and 3 men. Available Roles / Character Breakdown: Billy Fisher (Male, acting age 20–25) – The imaginative dreamer at the centre of the story. Charismatic, restless, and always dreaming of a bigger life beyond his small town. Florence Boothroyd (Female, acting age 75+) – Billy’s eccentric grandmother with a sharp wit and memorable presence. Geoffrey Fisher (Male, acting age 50) – Billy’s father; practical, blunt, and often frustrated with his son’s behaviour. Alice Fisher (Female, acting age 50) – Billy’s mother; caring but weary of Billy’s constant schemes and lies. Arthur Crabtree (Male, acting age 20–25) – Billy’s friend and co-worker; more straightforward and grounded. Barbara (Female, acting age 20–25) – One of Billy’s girlfriends; sincere and hopeful about their relationship. Rita (Female, acting age 18–25) – Independent and spirited, offering Billy the possibility of a different future. Liz (Female, acting age 20–25) – Another of Billy’s romantic entanglements, contributing to the web of Billy’s lies.

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  • Stage Buzz Brisbane | Local Performing Arts

    Discover the latest in Brisbane theatre auditions and reviews on Stage Buzz Brisbane. Your go-to source for all things theatre in the Queensland capital. WELCOME TO STAGE BUZZ BRISBANE This dynamic hub for South-East Queensland thespians is your go-to source for audition updates, performance reviews, and engaging content that celebrates the vibrant local theatre scene. From spotlighting talented actors to providing valuable tips, it's a community-driven platform that brings the magic of the stage to the forefront, fostering connection and celebration among theatre enthusiasts in the region. NICE TO MEET YOU Embrace the enchanting world of South-East Queensland's theatre scene right here on Stage Buzz Brisbane! We're your go-to hub for all things theatrical, from audition alerts and performance reviews to exclusive spotlights on local talents and invaluable theatre tips. Whether you're a seasoned thespian or a passionate supporter of the arts, join us on this exciting journey as we celebrate the magic that unfolds on our local stages. At Stage Buzz Brisbane, we believe every production deserves its moment in the spotlight. If you know of any upcoming productions or hidden gems that have slipped under the radar, don't hesitate to reach out and share your insights or let us know about the productions that deserve extra applause. Together, let's shine a light on the vibrant and thriving community theatre culture in South-East Queensland. Let the curtains rise, and let the show begin! Contact

  • CHILDREN'S THEATRE: Where is the Green Sheep - Monkey Baa Theatre | Stage Buzz Brisbane

    < Back CHILDREN'S THEATRE: Where is the Green Sheep - Monkey Baa Theatre 24 Mar 2026 Season: March 24th - April 18th, 2026 Title: Where is the Green Sheep? Presented By: Monkey Baa Theatre Company in co‑production with QPAC, The Events Centre, Empire Theatre & Logan Entertainment Centre Genre: Family / Kids Theatre Synopsis: An immersive visual theatre experience based on the beloved children’s book by Mem Fox and Judy Horacek. Join Blue Sheep, Red Sheep, Bath Sheep and Bed Sheep as they search for the elusive Green Sheep . With puppetry, animation and the voices of young narrators (co‑created with students from Bankstown West Public School), this magical production celebrates curiosity, colour and joy. The Events Centre Season: Performance Dates: March 24th - 25th, 2026 Performance Times: Tuesday - 4:30PM Wednesday - 10AM & 12:30PM Performance Location and Address: Kings Theatre, The Events Centre, 20 Minchinton St, Caloundra QLD 4551 Ticket Costs: General Admission - $32 School Group (10+) - $26 pp Ticket Link: Buy Tickets - The Events Centre Where is the Green Sheep Logan Entertainment Centre Season: Performance Dates: March 28th, 2026 Performance Times: 10AM Performance Location and Address: Logan Entertainment Centre, 170 Wembley Rd, Logan Central QLD 4114 Ticket Costs: General Admission - $25 Ticket Link: Buy Tickets - Logan Entertainment Centre Where is the Green Sheep The Empire Theatre Season: Performance Dates: March 31st - April 1st, 2026 Performance Times: Tuesday - 6PM Wednesday - 9:30AM & 11:30AM Performance Location and Address: The Empire Theatre, 54-56 Neil St,, Toowoomba City QLD 4350 Ticket Costs: Adult - $32 Groups (6+) - $29 pp Empire Cardholder/Child (Under 15) - $28 Ticket Link: Buy Tickets - The Empire Theatre Where is the Green Sheep QPAC Playhouse Season: Performance Dates: April 13th - 18th, 2026 Performance Times: Monday - 1:30PM Tuesday to Saturday - 9:30AM & 12:30PM Performance Location and Address: Playhouse Theatre, Russell St, South Brisbane QLD 4101 Ticket Costs: General Admission - $45 Ticket Link: Buy Tickets - QPAC Where is the Green Sheep Warnings: Contains use of puppetry and animation; very mild theatrical haze/smoke may be used in some performances. Recommended Age: Ages 1–6 years and their families Duration: Approx. 45 minutes (no interval) Creative Team: Writer & Director - Eva Di Cesare Visual Art Director - Judy Horacek Production Designer - Tobhiyah Stone Feller Composer - Me‑Lee Hay Puppet Maker - Kay Yasugi Puppetry Director & Assistant Director - Kailah Cabanas Video Designer - Susie Henderson Lighting Designer - Matt Cox Sound Designer -Zac Saric Stage Manager - Cally Bartley Choreographer -Nat Jobe Other Information: All venues are accessible. Please contact the venue box office when booking for specific assistance needs. Previous Next

  • MUSICAL: Legally Blonde - Vargo Studios Theatrical, Events Centre | Stage Buzz Brisbane

    < Back MUSICAL: Legally Blonde - Vargo Studios Theatrical, Events Centre 21 Mar 2026 Season: March 21st, 2026 Title: Legally Blonde the Musical Presented By: Vargo Studios Genre: Musical Theatre / Comedy / Family Synopsis: Elle Woods appears to have it all - a glamorous life, devoted friends and the perfect boyfriend - until she’s dumped so he can pursue “more serious” ambitions. Determined to win him back, Elle charms her way into Harvard Law School and discovers that confidence, courage, and staying true to herself are more powerful than anyone ever gave her credit for. Bursting with catchy songs, dynamic choreography, and infectious optimism, Legally Blonde the Musical is a feel‑good theatrical celebration of self‑belief and empowerment. Performance Dates: Saturday March 21st, 2026 Performance Times: 1PM & 7PM Performance Location and Address: Kings Theatre, The Events Centre, 20 Minchinton Street, Caloundra QLD 4551, Australia Ticket Costs: All tickets $69.90 Ticket Link: Buy Tickets - Legally Blonde Warnings: Light mature themes, smoke and haze effects used during the performance. Recommended Age: Parental guidance recommended Duration: Approximately 2 hours 26 minutes, including a 20‑minute interval. Production Website: The Events Centre - Legally Blonde Other information: The Events Centre Caloundra is a major performing arts venue on the Sunshine Coast with accessible seating options, wheelchair access and facilities - book accessibility or Companion Card tickets via the box office or ticketing system. Contact the box office at (07) 5491 4240 for group bookings, accessibility requirements and assistance. Previous Next

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