General News
22 December, 2023
New direction for Lighthouse Theatre
WARRNAMBOOL’s Lighthouse Theatre will enjoy a change of direction for its 2024 performance season.
To be renamed ‘Lighthouse Theatre Presents 2024,’ the new name for the upcoming season will reflect the ever-broadening nature of the performances, events and experiences the venue will bring to its patrons.
Lighthouse Theatre Presents provides an opportunity for the venue to present greater experiences, to reflect the world around us.
“We hope that this new program brings bigger and better experiences for the community at the Lighthouse Theatre,” service manager Xavier Dannock said.
The program, which was recently launched on-site, started with a guided tour before patrons sat back and celebrated ‘everything good about the world’ with Gillian Cosgriff as she performed her award-winning and heartfelt solo comedy show “Actually, Good”.
“As we look ahead, we are crafting an environment that allows you to imagine yourself on stage - a place where your identity, alongside those of your friends and the broader world, is reflected,” Mr Dannock said.
“This space serves as a collective canvas for sharing stories, inviting the community to embark on emotional journeys through the narratives presented.”
Mr Dannock believes the upcoming performances in 2024 aspire to provide enriching experiences, inviting audiences to revel in the joy of live performances.
“Lighthouse Theatre Presents is an exciting mix of the best performing arts on offer, and we have ensured there is something for everyone.
“Everyone is welcome at the Lighthouse Theatre, and we strive to provide the most accessible, welcoming and safe space, something that is at the core of our values.”
Lighthouse Theatre Presents 2024 welcomes favorites such as the Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow, Bell Shakespeare, Opera Australia and Inventi Ensemble with all new productions.
Families will be delighted by the Australian Chamber Orchestra’s How to Catch a Star, which will leave audiences of all ages filled with hope and optimism.
They will also love The Gruffalo, which will take the littlest audience members on a daring adventure through the deep, dark wood in a magical, musical adaptation of the classic picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler.
An essential for families will be Tempo, a Flying Fruit Fly Circus production, which features an extraordinary ensemble of young performers who not only possess dazzling circus skills but also play instruments.
“We have incredible female talent coming to the Lighthouse Theatre next year including, in March, the Coal Miner’s Daughter, who will grace the stage and celebrate the incredible life of the late great Loretta Lyn,” Mr Dannock said.
The most loved vocal duo of their generation, Vika and Linda Bull, will also be coming in early 2024.
Experience an extraordinary musical journey that showcases the immense talent and innovative creations of celebrated, ARIA-nominated, and award-winning Indigenous singer and songwriter, Emma Donovan.
Get ready for an unforgettable performance by the one and only Ella Hooper.
Following the triumphant success with the chart-topping band Killing Heidi, Ella embarked on an exhilarating solo career and her new album marks an exciting new chapter in her artistic journey, revealing the depths of her profoundly personal song writing.
A cabaret performance by local performer Anna-Lee Robertson is also scheduled for later in the year.
“If you would like to be entertained, embark on a magical journey with Australia’s cherished power couple, Frankie J Holden and Michelle Pettigrove, as they take centre stage to celebrate the rich tapestry of life and love in their show How Sweet It Is,” Mr Dannock said.
“This dynamic duo, renowned performers and real-life partners, seamlessly blend music and laughter, offering an authentic and entertaining performance that transcends the ordinary.”
Another not to missed show will be Two Grands, Four Hands!
Indulge in the exhilarating experience of witnessing two virtuoso pianists captivate audiences at the grand pianos in a dazzling showdown.
Lighthouse Theatre Presents 2024 will also feature four matinees throughout the year that are delightful, fun, musical and at an accessible time and price.
This will comprise I Love Paris, The Lloyd Webber Evolution, Promises Promises – The Music of Burt Bacharach and Hal David and a Christmas performance – ‘Tis The Season.
If drama is more your thing, don’t miss the comedy/drama NEWK, The John Newcombe Story, coming in February.
NEWK traces the life of the great Australian tennis champion of the 1960s and 70s, John Newcombe, and is performed by Damian Callinan.
Lost in Shanghai, Past the Shallows and a show for the whole family, The Peasant Prince, will also feature in 2024.
A great show for all ages is an Erth Production, ARC, which will showcase exquisite puppetry, an enigmatic host, audience interaction and a world of rare and exotic animals.
Next year’s season will also see continued accessibility services for patrons, with three performances accompanied by live Auslan interpretation.
With so much on offer, it is worth considering a 2024 membership to the theatre that provides you access to discounted tickets, suppers, meet and greets, deferred payment options, 10% off bar purchases and special pre-sale bookings.
For the full list of the Lighthouse Theatre Presents 2024 performances click the link: https://shorturl.at/bcezC.
