OBSERVER: Theatre Works 2026
After something of an annus mirabilis in 2025, when the highest box office results were achieved in Theatre Works’ 45-year history, the company finished the year by launching its 2026 season.
However, next year will be undoubtedly challenging as its powerhouse executive director/creative producer Dianne Toulsen departs in July.
The launch, held at the company’s flagship venue on Acland St in St Kilda, introduced no less than 49 different productions it will offer in 2026 under the now familiar four programming streams: by Theatre Works (produced totally in-house); with Theatre Works (co-produced with independent artists or companies); fresh works (productions that could potentially become in-house); and festival works (where the company acts as a south-side hub for events such as midsumma or the fringe festival).
It is a bold and ambitious program but nothing less has come to be expected of Theatre Works under the inspired direction of Toulsen and her dedicated team of Adam Gardner, Jade Hibbert, Chris Hansen, River Stevens, Belle Hansen, Joshua Fernandez and Anne Henderson. It spoke volumes about the ethos of the company that most of the program was presented by members of this team as well as some of the playwrights featured next year.
In terms of venues, the company has its four purpose-built spaces for use next year: the main theatre in Acland St for showcasing professional productions; the explosives factory for more experimental work; the twisk rehearsal space for developing work; and the black box cafe, bar and outdoor stage for socialising and building community.
Theatre Works brands itself as the home of Australian independent theatre and, hubris aside, it really does walk the talk in its mission and values which promote and support this style of theatre.
There is no doubting what it has achieved in the eight years Toulsen has been at the helm and she leaves big shoes to fill for whoever takes over come July.
Peter Murphy