After more than a year of darkness, the beloved Eternity Playhouse is preparing to welcome back audiences in a grand revival for the Sydney Fringe Festival. Nestled on Palmer Street in Darlinghurst, this historic theater had remained closed since the unfortunate closure of its resident company, Darlinghurst Theatre, due to liquidation last year.
“It’s just so nice that those doors will be open again,”
expressed Patrick Kennedy, who was recently appointed as the festival’s new CEO. Kennedy’s sentiment resonates with many in the community who felt the void left by the shuttering of this iconic venue. The reopening brings a wave of excitement and anticipation for both performers and theater enthusiasts alike.
The journey to reopen Eternity Playhouse has been marked by dedication and collaboration. Patrick Kennedy shared,
“We’re terrifically overwhelmed to be the first people back.”
His passion and commitment are evident as he navigated through challenges and sealed the deal with the City of Sydney to revitalize this cultural gem.
Against all odds, after meticulous negotiations, a contract was inked last Friday between the festival organizers and the City of Sydney. A spokesperson from the council revealed plans for operating the theatre over the next three years, starting with hosting events for this year’s Fringe Festival.
With eager anticipation building up towards September 1st, when festivities kick off, Kennedy highlighted how this year’s program aims to bring performances directly to diverse audiences across multiple precincts in Sydney. He enthused about reaching people “where they live
” and offering an array of shows that cater to various tastes and interests.
Unlike traditional festivals with curated lineups, Sydney Fringe takes pride in being open-access, allowing artists from all backgrounds to showcase their talents. As Kennedy mentioned, “
We are here to facilitate a conversation between the artist and a venue.
” This inclusive approach fosters creativity and diversity within its vibrant arts community.
Amongst the headline acts set to grace Eternity Playhouse are captivating shows spanning from immersive theatre experiences like ‘When Night Comes’ by Broad Encounters to dynamic performances such as ‘Triptych’ by renowned Australian choreographer Lewis Major. The eclectic mix promises something for every artistic palate.
As preparations intensify for this year’s festival, expectations are high not just for increased attendance but also for meaningful engagement with audiences. According to Kennedy: “
It’s about serving our audiences with meaningful content… Every ticket is an invitation: take a risk, discover new voices.”
With ticket prices hovering around $25 on average this year, there’s an invitation extended to everyone willing to explore uncharted territories within Sydney’s thriving arts scene. From thought-provoking dramas to exhilarating dance routines – there’s an abundance of talent waiting to captivate hearts at Eternity Playhouse during this exciting chapter in Sydney’s theatrical landscape.
So mark your calendars from September 1st-30th because it’s not just about attending shows; it’s about embarking on a journey where surprises await at every turn. Let your curiosity guide you through an unforgettable month filled with creativity and inspiration at one of Sydney’s most cherished cultural hubs – Eternity Playhouse!
