The opportunity to view ‘live’ theatrical performance from the comfort of home is an experience to which many of us have given indulgent thought. Competing with the ordeal of travel, parking and audience, especially in the time of Covid, is never an attractive proposition. However, we do so, because nothing can replace the visceral engagement of witnessing a company of performers and creatives conjure stories right there in front of us.

Living in the big cities can make this ritual commonplace; but it is a practice that is not available to many keen theatre-goers. Patrons in regional centres, immunocompromised viewers and those looking for affordable and accessible tickets are likely to miss out on the work presented by our national theatre, dance, music and opera companies.

Australian Theatre Live is a new experience of performance allowing us to see quality theatre on digital platforms while also preserving for eternity what is an ephemeral night in the theatre.

Australian Theatre Live has just launched a subscription platform for digital theatre experiences, making Australian art more accessible to all.

With a growing content library of mainstage and independent theatre, opera, dance, acrobatics and music, Australian Theatre Live captures live performance for you to enjoy on your schedule. Their fast-growing digital library is designed with everyone in mind.

The Australian Theatre Live catalogue includes theatrical experiences from Sydney Theatre Company, Griffin Theatre Company, the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra, Sydney Festival, Kings Cross Theatre, the Old Fitz and more.

“People often have this perception that recorded theatre is not as enjoyable as the live thing. However, due to the beautiful camera angles and crisp sound quality, our films offer a level of intimacy beyond that of the usual audience member’s experience. Watching an Australian Theatre Live film is like watching a play from on the stage” – Grant Dodwell, Creative Director Australian Theatre Live

Home audiences are able gain access to some of the best of what Australian theatre has to offer, regardless of your location, income, or access needs. Australian Theatre Live grants all Australians the opportunity to enjoy, critique and participate in the development of our artistic heritage.

Emma Wright is an Associate Producer with the company and joins STAGES to provide insight into this fascinating alternative to experiencing and preserving, our great performances.

The STAGES podcast is available to access and subscribe from Spotify and Apple podcasts. Or from wherever you access your favourite podcasts. A conversation with creatives about craft and career. Recipient of Best New Podcast at 2019 Australian Podcast Awards. Follow socials on instagram (stagespodcast) and facebook (Stages).

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