From the Minister for Culture and the Arts

Theatre plays a pivotal role in connecting Western Australians and helping to make our State a dynamic and vibrant place to live and work.

The positive effects of the arts in general, and theatre in particular, are well documented. As the State’s principal theatre company, Black Swan plays a valuable role by telling the stories of Western Australians, encouraging thought and debate, and challenging perception.

The number of co-productions in Black Swan’s 2010 season program is proof that theatre made in Western Australia is not only relevant to our own State, but in demand throughout Australia. It is very exciting to know that during 2010 Black Swan productions will not only be seen at the Playhouse Theatre here in Perth, but also in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide.

The State Government looks forward to the opening of the new State Theatre Centre of Western Australia in late 2010, where Black Swan will have access to  administrative facilities and state of the art performance spaces, together with outstanding public amenities for audiences.

Since becoming Minister for Culture and the Arts, I have had the pleasure of attending many of Black Swan State Theatre Company’s excellent and engaging productions. I look forward to experiencing more of the same in 2010.

John Day
Minister for Culture and the Arts