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Toowoomba’s original play: “What We Ought to Be”

"What We Ought to Be" a neo-gothic play

What’s happening?

What We Ought to Be, a neo-gothic original play by local playwright Izak Devlin, debuts at the Empire Theatre Studio in Toowoomba.

This theatrical event runs from Thursday, January 16, to Saturday, January 18, 2025, featuring four performances in total.

Set in the dreary late 19th century, the play follows a cast of deeply flawed characters grappling with the aftermath of a wealthy aristocrat’s mysterious disappearance. With a nod to gothic tales and classic whodunnits, it promises twists, dark humour, and surprises.

The production is supported by the Toowoomba Regional Council, the Regional Arts Fund, and the Empire Theatre’s Homegrown Program, a platform dedicated to fostering original works by emerging local artists.

Why it matters?

This debut showcases Toowoomba’s burgeoning theatre scene and highlights the talent of local creatives.

By providing a platform for original storytelling, What We Ought to Be exemplifies how regional arts programs like Homegrown are nurturing creativity and bringing unique works to audiences.

Local Impact

The play is entirely a local production, featuring a cast of actors from Toowoomba and live music composed by William Pipe, performed by a string quintet.

It’s a testament to the artistic potential within the community and offers audiences an opportunity to experience a distinctly local yet universally compelling story.

The set production

By the Numbers

  • 4 performances will take place from January 16 to January 18.
  • 1 original score, composed by William Pipe, will be performed live by a 5-member string quintet.
  • The Empire Theatre’s Homegrown Program has supported numerous local works, with many participants achieving publication success and showcasing their productions beyond Toowoomba.
Meet the cast of ‘What We Ought to Be’

Zoom In

Homegrown is The Empire Theatre’s signature initiative supporting independent performances.

The program provides tailored support to producers, fostering access, creativity, and collaboration.

Past successes demonstrate its value in empowering local artists to take their work beyond regional audiences.

Zoom Out

Regional arts funding initiatives like the Regional Arts Fund and support from local councils play a crucial role in sustaining vibrant cultural landscapes outside metropolitan hubs.

Programs like Homegrown also enhance community identity by championing stories rooted in local experiences.

What to look for next?

Keep an eye on future productions from the Empire Theatre’s Homegrown Program as it continues to back emerging talents.

Could this neo-gothic tale, with its rich characters and haunting live music, find its way to a broader audience or national recognition?

Tickets for What We Ought to Be are available through the Empire Theatre website, but with only four shows, seats are filling fast!

Don’t miss this unique theatrical experience.

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