THEATRE 180’s celebrated production, The Lighthouse Girl Saga, is set to captivate new audiences across Western Australia, thanks to a generous grant of $149,712 from the State Government. This funding, provided through the Department of Local Government, Sport and Cultural Industries (DLGSC) as part of the 2024-25 Arts Strategic Initiative Program, will allow the innovative production to embark on a regional tour, bringing its unique blend of live theatre and cinema to communities beyond Perth.
Theatre enthusiasts in regional WA have eagerly awaited the opportunity to experience The Lighthouse Girl Saga, a production that has already enjoyed a series of sold-out performances in the Perth area. This enthusiasm is not surprising, given the production’s pedigree. The show is the brainchild of two of Western Australia’s most esteemed playwrights, Jenny Davis OAM and Hellie Turner, and is based on a series of award-winning novels by Dianne Wolfer. The story, set against the backdrop of wartime, weaves a narrative of love and loss while embodying the ANZAC spirit, resonating deeply with audiences.
Theatre 180 has carved out a distinctive niche in the performing arts landscape with its CineStage productions, which combine the immediacy of live theatre with the visual grandeur of cinema. This format has proven to be a winning formula, offering audiences an immersive experience that transcends the traditional boundaries of theatre. The Lighthouse Girl Saga was the first production to utilise this format and has since been followed by other successful shows, including Sydney II: Lost and Found and A Fortunate Life. These productions have consistently drawn praise for their innovation and emotional impact.
The upcoming regional tour represents a significant milestone for THEATRE 180, furthering its mission to bring high-quality, accessible arts experiences to all corners of the state. The Cook Government’s support for this tour underscores its commitment to fostering a vibrant arts and culture sector across Western Australia. Minister for Culture and the Arts, David Templeman, expressed his admiration for THEATRE 180’s work, highlighting the strong following the company has built through its unique approach to storytelling. He noted that the $150,000 grant would not only enable more Western Australians to enjoy The Lighthouse Girl Saga but also strengthen the social and economic fabric of the regional communities the tour will reach.
Since its inception as Agelink Theatre in 1993, THEATRE 180 has consistently pushed the boundaries of what theatre can be. The company’s transformation in 2018 marked a new chapter, with a focus on merging the visceral impact of live performance with the visual storytelling power of cinema. The result is a theatrical experience that is as engaging as it is innovative. The Lighthouse Girl Saga exemplifies this approach, offering audiences a production that is both deeply moving and visually stunning.
The world premiere of The Lighthouse Girl Saga took place in Albany, with subsequent performances at Orana Cinema Busselton, ACE Cinemas Midland, and Rockingham. The tour will continue to build on this success, bringing the production to new venues across the state. The Windsor Luna Palace Cinemas are slated to host the show in October and November of 2023, marking another exciting chapter in its journey.
Minister Templeman’s endorsement of THEATRE 180’s work is reflective of a broader recognition of the company’s contribution to the arts in WA. The funding not only supports the regional tour but also reinforces the importance of making arts and culture accessible to all Western Australians, regardless of their location. The benefits of this approach are manifold, with cultural engagement driving both social cohesion and economic development in the areas the tour will visit.
The grant is also a testament to the enduring appeal of The Lighthouse Girl Saga, a production that has already touched the hearts of thousands of people. As the tour unfolds, even more audiences will have the opportunity to experience its powerful storytelling and innovative staging. This tour is poised to further cement THEATRE 180’s reputation as a leader in the Australian theatre scene, and as a pioneer of new and exciting ways to experience live performance.
THEATRE 180’s work is a shining example of how traditional art forms can be revitalised through creative innovation. The combination of live performance and cinema has proven to be a potent mix, delivering an experience that is both immediate and immersive. As the company prepares to take The Lighthouse Girl Saga on the road, it is clear that its commitment to pushing the boundaries of theatre will continue to win it fans across Western Australia and beyond.
For media inquiries, Kym Coolhaas is available at 0417 306 221 or 6552 5400.
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