Theatre

Tasmania has a long and rich theatrical history, with most significant towns in the State boasting their own theatre. Many of these buildings still exist. Some remain operational, some now function as cinemas, while others have been appropriated but retain their stage and seating areas. These spaces were an important way of bringing people together. They share a universal common ground in which we have all participated – from the nervous trepidation of childhood experiences and memories of plays or performances to the anticipation of theatre, orchestra or cinema. I aim to bring these historically resonant spaces back into the public eye, and portray them in a way that is representative of their origins. Theatre is essentially a relationship between performer, spectator and the space in which they come together. How can I photograph these spaces in a manner that preferences the notion of audience? Will emphasizing their formal qualities portray the sense of anticipation or occasion that I associate with them?