Development
Ensemble Development is a creative hub where seeds are sown, sparks ignite and creative conversations unfurl. With a focus on artistic development, it is an inclusive program where we explore potential, commission new work, nurture emerging talent and trial works in development, all of which shape the future of Ensemble Theatre.
Ensemble Theatre Sandra Bates Director's Awards
Supported by Deborah Thomas and Jinnie and Ross Gavin.
We’re thrilled to offer two aspiring directors the Ensemble Theatre Sandra Bates Director’s Award. Awarded each year, the successful applicants will receive the valuable opportunity to work as an Assistant Director on two of our mainstage productions and Ensemble Development projects.
2019: Adam Deusien and Erin Taylor
2018: Liz Arday and Felicity Nicol
2017: Shaun Rennie and Francesca Savige
2016: Priscilla Jackman and Janine Watson
Director At Work
An exclusive opportunity for theatregoers and aspiring theatre makers to go behind-the-scenes and see our skilled directors at work. Join a small group for an intimate afternoon in the rehearsal room to discover how a play is brought to life, and share these exciting insights with your friends.
THE LAST FIVE YEARS with Elsie Edgerton-Till
Tuesday 12 March 3.30pm–5.30pm
+ BOOK NOW
MURDER ON THE WIRELESS with Mark Kilmurry
Tuesday 28 May 3.30pm–5.30pm
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BABY DOLL with Shaun Rennie
Thursday 26 September 3.30pm–5.30pm
+ BOOK NOW
$35 per session.
Spaces are limited. For bookings call Box Office on (02) 8918 3400 or book on the links above.
The Director At Work program is proudly supported by George and Diana Shirling ‘Supporting the next generation in theatre’
Play Readings
Ensemble Development Play Readings are a unique experience for audiences to discover exciting new and classic plays. Be among the first audience to see a new work in development and help shape its future by participating in a lively creative discussion with the actors, director and writer to provide feedback about your experience. Play Readings will be announced throughout the year. Make sure you don’t miss out by signing up to our e-newsletter.
The play reading series is proudly supported by George and Diana Shirling ‘Supporting the next generation in theatre’
Commissions and new play development
Ensemble Theatre aims to give voice to untold stories reflecting Australia’s changing cultural identity, and reinforcing theatre’s relevance as a vehicle for social change. We are committed to commissioning and developing new work, and to ensuring the success of these productions by providing dramaturgical support and creative development.
THE APPLETON LADIES’ POTATO RACE
By Melanie Tait
Script Development and Creative Development 2018 / in production 2019
Supported by Jenny and Guy Reynolds
DIPLOMACY
By Cyril Gély
Translation and adaptation by Julie Rose, commissioned 2017/ produced 2018
Supported by Jinnie and Ross Gavin
THE PLANT
By Kit Brookman
Ensemble Theatre New Writing Commission 2016 / produced 2017
Supported by David Williamson
THE BIG DRY
Based on the novel by Tony Davis
Adapted by Mark Kilmurry
Commissioned 2015 / produced 2016
THE ANZAC PROJECT
By Geoffrey Atherden and Vanessa Bates
Commissioned 2014 / produced 2015
Rory Potter and Noah Sturzaker in THE BIG DRY. Photo by Clare Hawley
Dig deeper with a post-show Q&A
Ever wondered how the cast learn so many lines? Or what really resonates about the play with the director? Join us at one of our post-show Q&A sessions for an engaging conversation about the play. Simply purchase tickets to a Q&A performance and stay in your seats after the show.
THE BIG TIME
1 Feb 8.15pm
14 Feb 11am
28 Feb 11am
THE APPLETON LADIES’ POTATO RACE
4 Apr 8.15pm
16 Apr 11am
THE LAST FIVE YEARS
10 Apr 8.15pm
23 Apr 11am
FOLK
17 May 8.15pm
30 May 11am
MURDER ON THE WIRELESS
28 Jun 11am
5 Jul 8.15pm
DIPLOMACY
3 Jul 8.15pm
9 Jul 11am
A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE
2 Aug 8.15pm
22 Aug 11am
THE LAST WIFE
13 Sep 8.15pm
19 Sep 11am
FULLY COMMITTED
24 Oct 8.15pm
29 Oct 11am
BABY DOLL
25 Oct 8.15pm
5 Nov 11am
THE ODD COUPLE
6 Dec 8.15pm
19 Dec 11am
Share your love of theatre with a teen
Introduce theatre to the teenager in your life with a free ticket to join you on one of our Free Teen nights. These are subject to availability and can be booked alongside one adult subscription or single ticket.
2019 Free Teen nights
27 Feb 7.30pm THE BIG TIME +BOOK NOW
28 Apr 6.15pm THE APPLETON LADIES’ POTATO +BOOK NOW
17 Apr 6.15pm THE LAST FIVE YEARS +BOOK NOW
29 May 7.30pm FOLK +BOOK NOW
3 Jul 6.15pm MURDER ON THE WIRELESS +BOOK NOW
9 Jul 6pm DIPLOMACY +BOOK NOW
21 Aug 7.30pm A VIEW FROM THE BRIDGE +BOOK NOW
18 Sep 7.30pm THE LAST WIFE +BOOK NOW
31 Oct 6pm FULLY COMMITTED +BOOK NOW
13 Nov 8.15pm BABY DOLL +BOOK NOW
28 Dec 8.15pm THE ODD COUPLE +BOOK NOW
Ensemble Theatre also supports PLAYWAVE, a program aimed at connecting 15 – 19 year olds with the arts. Along with discounted tickets to our shows, members of PLAYWAVE can access an array of special events and offers across art forms. See playwave.com.au for details.
