Queensland Theatre Company Postpones PYGMALLION until November

Queensland Theatre Company has postponed its upcoming production of George Bernard Shaw's Pygmalion until November this year due to delays in re-opening The Playhouse at QPAC.
 
Although the theatre itself and surrounding public areas were unscathed, the fire, air conditioning and electrical systems located in the sub-basement of the venue were exposed to flood water for an extended period. The most recent assessment confirmed that these critical systems cannot be repaired in time for the programmed season of Pygmalion, originally planned for 21 March - 10 April.
 
Queensland Theatre Company General Manager, Libby Anstis, said a postponement was unavoidable in the circumstances.
 
"Naturally we're disappointed about having to shift the season, but after exhausting other possibilities like running a shorter season or moving to another venue, a postponement is the only feasible way to go," she said.
 
"Pygmalion is shaping up to be one of our most popular shows this year, and despite this setback it will definitely be worth the wait," she said.
 
Queensland Theatre Company will contact and reallocate more than 4,000 patrons already booked in to see the play.
 
The postponement is a second flood-related issue to impact Queensland Theatre Company. The organisation's home premises at Montague Road were inundated in January, causing extensive damage to its collection of props and costumes, plus two studio facilities. The main space, Bille Brown Studio, will be refurbished in time for scheduled education performances of Berthold Brecht's Man Equals Man on 1 March.
 
Queensland Theatre Company's production of Sacré Bleu! - a double bill of French farce - opens tonight at the Cremorne Theatre, QPAC. The Company has donated a free performance on Tuesday 1 March to flood victims, and will collect donations for flood relief throughout the season.