THEATRES OF WAR EXHIBITION Set for QPAC

The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) presents the touring exhibition, Theatres of War: Wartime Entertainment and the Australian Experience, in the Tony Gould Gallery from 9 February to 4 June 2016.

Curated by Arts Centre Melbourne and drawn from its expansive Performing Arts Collection, Theatres of War has been developed in commemoration of the Anzac Centenary. This FREE exhibition, examines the important role played by the performing arts in the lives of Australians affected by war, at home and in the field.

Warfare and fanfare, front line and chorus line, troops and troupes; Theatres of War: Wartime Entertainment and the Australian Experience is a fascinating examination of the sometimes overlooked importance that theatre and music has in the hearts and minds of those who find themselves in war zones.

From improvised theatrical performances used as means of escapism in POW camps, to celebrities visiting the front line to entertain our troops, performing arts has had a powerful role throughout Australian war history.

Chronicling the First and Second World Wars as well as later conflicts and peace keeping missions, Theatres of War: Wartime Entertainment and the Australian Experience reflects on the power of performance within conditions that are often creatively stifling. It also explores how artistic expression can draw people together during times of adversity.

The exhibition highlights three themes; On the Home Front, On Active Service and Entertaining the Troops.

QPAC Chief Executive John Kotzas said this exhibition is about shining a light on the power of performance during times of hardship.

"Theatres of War: Wartime Entertainment and the Australian Experience explores the power of performance to bring people together, to uplift spirits and offer a means of escapism during times of great adversity," he said.

The FREE exhibition will be open weekly from Tuesday to Sunday, 10am to 4pm. Entry to the Tony Gould Gallery is via QPAC's Cremorne Theatre entrance.

The Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) is located within Queensland's vibrant cultural precinct at South Bank, Brisbane. The Centre is focused on creating a world where the performing arts matter to everyone.

To post a comment, you must register and login.