Observatory Theatre proudly announces Act 1 of their 2026 Season, presenting new works by some of Queensland’s brightest emerging theatre-makers. With major collaborations, epic premiere productions, and ambitious new commissions, audiences are in for an extra-ordinary journey.
Act 1 begins with a partnership alongside CAST Performance and Communify Qld with a musical performance of The Talent Scout. Devised with the House of Soul with an original story by Brian Procopis, The Talent Scout was written in collaboration with Observatory Artistic Director Lachlan Driscoll. The production will unite audiences as it celebrates the magic of music, community, and the power of being yourself.
Based on Brisbane’s community choir of singers from all experience levels, walks of life, cultures and abilities, audiences can catch this show at Brisbane Powerhouse for one big night on 7 March. Proudly sponsored by Brisbane City Council.
Observatory Theatre Artistic Director Lachlan Driscoll said:
“The choir is a sanctuary for everyone to come together, sing and express themselves, and share their stories. It has a rich history that is ready to take to the stage.”
Following on from that, local writer Samantha Hill’s new play Dead Bat On the Night Shift, commissioned and developed through the Telescope New Writing Program, will have its world-premiere as a co-production with PIP Theatre from 26 August – 5 September.
This dark comedy of otherworldly proportions ventures into the mind of call centre employee Sloane. She believes the universe is sending her signs to make a change in her life. Laced with black wit and sparkling with social commentary, audiences can expect to dive deep into the chaotic spiral of someone who is searching for more in life than just work.
Driscoll, who will direct the production, said:
“We’ve been developing this play for a few years now. Sam and I are thrilled to finally bring this weird and wonderful corporate comedy to the stage.”
2026 will also welcome the new commission of The Left Hand of Darkness adapted by genderqueer writer el waddingham, based on the 1969 novel by Ursula K. Le Guin. A groundbreaking sci-fi tale renowned for its exploration of gender roles and fluidity, this adaptation will reinvent what was truly a novel ahead of its time.
Writer el waddingham said:
“Reading this novel for the first time felt like coming home to a place beyond our galaxy that maybe, in some other life, I could belong to. It is going to be an absolute treat for queer audiences and science-fiction buffs alike.”
The Telescope New Writing Program also introduces the new commissions of Paid! by Alexandra Ellen and Wasted by Annabel Gilbert. Both outstanding emerging professionals, Ellen and Gilbert’s relevant new plays explore urgent and complex ideas that seek to challenge audience expectations. Audiences can track their journey from page to stage by following Observatory’s social media profiles and their website.
With so many worlds waiting to be experienced, the 2026 season’s first act will be nothing short of extra-ordinary. Observatory Theatre invites audiences to join them at the theatre and explore together.
Tickets for Observatory Theatre’s Season 2026 Act 1 are on sale now at their website.
Tickets: https://www.observatorytheatre.com/2026-season-act-1
Website: https://www.observatorytheatre.com/
Socials: https://www.instagram.com/observatorytheatre/
Photo credits: Dead Bat on the Night Shift, photo by Images by Anderson
