Stage Briefs

The big theatre re-opening in Sydney is under threat, due to the outbreak of COVID-19 on the northern beaches.

Premier Gladys Berejiklian announced today that until Wednesday evening, December 23, 2020, no indoor hospitality venues can have more than 300 patrons.

The State is also reverting to the one person for every four-square metre rule and restrictions on singing have been re-introduced.

This follows confirmation that 30 people contracted COVID-19 on Saturday, and a further 15 on Sunday through community transmission.

Another lead role has been scored by a WAAPA graduate from Perth - this time for Platinum Entertainment's season of The Boy From Oz in the Crown Theatre.

Ethan Jones is taking on the role of Peter Allen, the role which made Todd McKenney famous and scored Hugh Jackman a Tony. 

The triple threat and pianist scored the role - just months after suffering the disappointment of losing work, when the Sydney production he was cast in (9 to 5) was cancelled.

Applcations are now open for The Marten Bequest Scholarships, which offer talented young artists the chance to explore, study and develop their artistic gifts through travelling either interstate and/or overseas.

The scholarships provide financial support under the categories acting, architecture, ballet, instrumental music, painting, poetry, prose, sculpture and singing to help talented Australian artists achieve their dreams. 

One of the headline acts of the Sydney Festival has been cancelled after an open letter of complaint was lodged about the casting.

Hugh Sheridan was set to star in the musical Hedwig and the Angry Inch at the Enmore Theatre.

An open letter was sent to the Sydney Festival by a group self-described as the Australian transgender community, allies in the LGBTQI+ and wider community.