The Genesian Theatre Company is excited to announce that work has commenced on the build of its new home in Rozelle.
“It’s been a long, long road, but the contracts are signed and we’re raring to go!” said Genesian Theatre Company President, Barry Nielsen.
After learning that their beloved Kent St theatre was sold to developers in 2019, the Genesians began looking for a new home, eventually landing on St Joseph’s church hall in Rozelle. The building will be completely refurbished to accommodate the theatre company, including raked seating and a new foyer and bar.
“We’re incredibly excited to have reached this milestone and we couldn’t have done it without the monumental effort of our Board who have been pouring over architectural plans and contracts for many months,” Mr Nielsen said.
With builders Westbury Constructions set to begin construction from 6th May, the company has negotiated an extension in its Kent Street premises so that performances can continue through to the end of 2024.
Opening on 4th May is the comedy Let’s Kill Agatha Christie, which is guaranteed to have audiences guessing (and giggling) to the very end. Helmed by Gregory George, the play centres around author Prudence Sykes, who is so desperate for a literary hit she is prepared to engineer her own murder.
This will be followed by Noel Coward’s classic Hay Fever, directed by Jason Darlington, which will run until 27th July.
Details about the remainder of the 2024 season will be released shortly, including plans to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the company and the farewell to Kent Street.
“The countdown really has begun,” said Mr Nielsen, “So I would urge anyone who has ever been to the Kent Street theatre in the past to get along and see one of the final shows in this iconic venue.”
Nielsen also noted that patrons could now add a donation to their ticket booking to help support the Rozelle build.
“We still have a way to go with both the build and our fundraising efforts, so we encourage all theatre lovers to continue to support us by attending our shows and donating to our campaigns,” Mr Neilsen said.
Let’s Kill Agatha Christie opens Saturday 4th May and runs until 8th June. To book tickets, or to donate, visit www.genesiantheatre.com.au