Free use of theatre discussed

The Peninsula Theatre is to be made available to local performers free of charge one day a month.

Gosford Council convened a meeting last week of theatre producers, directors, actors, writers, dancers and other performers from across the Central Coast to discuss the possibilities.

The council is promoting the concept of a "cultural laboratory" where performers from the region could exchange ideas and experiment.

"I see the Cultural Laboratory being something akin to an open space where people can come to be inspired and entertained and/or present their own artistic creation while mixing with local artists," said council's manager of arts and culture, Ms Debra Schleger.

"We do not know yet what the outcomes will be.

"The laboratory will be organic and will, in time, create its own atmosphere and spirit."

Gosford Council's cultural development officer Mr Elio Gatti said last week's meeting was a good opportunity for the cultural community to exchange ideas, styles, thoughts and possibilities.

He said the council had been busy developing a suitable program for the first presentation to be held at the Peninsula Theatre on May 6 and again on June 24.

Mr Gatti said the program would be rich in talents and ideas.

"It spans music to film, opera to poetry and drama."

He said the idea for the "cultural laboratory" came from council's five-year cultural plan that aimed at developing and nurturing cultural groups, venues and activities on the Central Coast.

For more information, contact 4323 7299.

Lyle Stone, March 23 Elio Gatti, Gosford Council