La Boite had just announced the appointment of David Berthold as its new artistic director when the company received notice that its Australia Council funding application had been rejected – meaning 156,000 fewer dollars for the incoming director/CEO.
So, what does this mean for Brisbane audiences? First off, don’t panic – La Boite will continue and Berthold has pledged that the loss of funding won’t lessen the quality of the shows he produces. La Boite has a supportive partner in Arts Queensland and the Australia Council blow won’t shatter the company. But it is likely to impact on the sort of work the company can do.
Less money means less risks. For a professional company, La Boite has always operated on the smell of an oily rag (compared to the funding state theatre companies receive) and now, more than ever, they need audiences to survive.
If you’ve already seen their latest show Attack of the Attacking Attackers and would like to support the company in its quest to remain Brisbane’s second largest professional theatre company and employer of Brisbane artists and creatives, then consider a gift voucher for the 2009 season. You can pay for a single ticket or several tickets and you’ll receive a voucher, which you’ll be able to redeem in 2009 for the show(s) of your choice. Phone the box office on 3007 8600 if you’d like to purchase a gift voucher. It’s a great idea for a Christmas present!
La Boite’s 2009 season will be launched on 29 January by David Berthold.
