Thirty-year-old Darlinghurst Theatre Company has been placed into voluntary administration.
In a shock announcement on social media, the company's directors announced their resolution to appoint Jonathon Keenan and Peter Krejci of BRI Ferrier as administrators.
DTC had been actively promoting ticket sales and its donor programme as recently as last week in an economic environment challenging the wider arts economy.
Darlinghurst Theatre Company was formed in 1993 by Glenn Terry. In its history of operation, DTC laid claim to being one of the largest employers of artists and arts workers in the small-to-medium, not-for-profit sector, and also a company that is renowned for its dedication to the integrity of artists vision, welfare and accessibility.
Previously based in the building that now holds the Hayes Theatre, in 2013 the company moved to a new 200-seat theatre, The Eternity Playhouse, in the heart of Darlinghurst.
The building is the former Burton Street Tabernacle, a 129 year-old Heritage listed building. Named by Clover Moore, the Eternity Playhouse took its title from the work of legendary Sydney artist, Arthur Stace.
Earlier this year iconic Brisbane Arts Theatre announced it was vacating its home of 70 years.
The Sydney company's full statement reads:
As of 17 June 2024, the Directors resolved to place Darlinghurst Theatre Limited (“Company”) into Voluntary Administration.
Jonathon Keenan and Peter Krejci of BRI Ferrier have been appointed Joint & Several Administrators of the Company. Given the Company’s financial position, all trading has been suspended and no events will go forward until further notice.
Administrators are exploring all options to save or restructure the business. If any parties are interested in assisting with that recapitalisation and restructuring process, they should contact the Administrator’s office urgently.
Ticketholders should explore options to recover their funds via a “chargeback” through their credit card provider.
The Administrators will be issuing more communication to all creditors and stakeholders in the coming days.
We appreciate your support and understanding during this challenging time.
