Equity calls for restoration of censored line

Equity has expressed disappointment at QTC’s removal of a satirical line about Premier Campbell Newman from the Jonathan Biggins’ play Australia Day.

“Theatre has long been used as a means to satirise and provide commentary on current events,” said Equity director Sue McCreadie. “The reference to Premier Newman is reflective of many social memes making the rounds.

“We appreciate that the current funding climate for the Queensland arts sector is bleak and that the loss of funding to many arts services in the latest round is disheartening.  However we would be concerned if companies allowed fear of political disapproval to compromise artistic decision-making or water down social commentary.

“It is certainly hard to believe that such a line could have been removed for artistic reasons.  Equity calls on the QTC to reconsider its decision”, said McCreadie. “It may only be one line but we would hate to see this set a precedent”.