Perth’s Deckchair calls final curtain

After producing over one hundred productions over three decades as Fremantle’s award winning premier Theatre Company, Deckchair Theatre has brought down its curtain for the final time.

“[T]he Board of Directors has taken the enormously difficult decision to close Deckchair Theatre’s doors.” – Chair of the Board of Directors, Dr. Dorothy Wardale

Since its beginnings thirty years ago, the company has strived to develop and present award-winning theatrical works that celebrate iconic Australian stories whilst developing the skills and careers of leading Australian talent. Unfortunately, the current economic climate has played a major role in the company’s closure.

“The cultural and economic landscape has changed greatly since Deckchair’s establishment 30 years ago, particularly post the GFC, making it difficult to maintain a sufficient level of income through box office and sponsorship”, said Dr. Dorothy Wardale, Chair of the Board of Directors.

“This, when combined with continuing restraints on funding levels across the three tiers of government, as well as rapidly changing audience behaviour unfortunately means the organisation’s future has become unsustainable.”

Not only does Perth loose an award winning theatre company but also a venue and the opportunity for schools students to participate in arts education.

To ensure that its place in Western Australian history is not lost forever Deckchair will begin the task of producing its final story, archiving and recording its history.

A farewell party will be held on Friday, 2 November from 6:30pm at Victoria Hall, 179 High Street Fremantle, where memorabilia will be for sale.