It’s fair to say the performing arts were heavily affected by COVID, but things are certainly looking up in 2023, with the Orange Civic Theatre officially launching next year’s packed season program. 

Attended by about 200 eager theatre-goers, the Orange Civic Theatre held an official launch of their 2023 program – under the title “Let’s Shout!” – last Thursday, December 8.

It’s the first in-person launch the theatre has held since before the pandemic.

Launching the season, chair of Orange City Council’s Services Policy Committee, Councillor Mel McDonell, said Orange Civic Theatre continues to attract large numbers of patrons from Orange and the wider region. 

“Alongside the important bricks-and-mortar infrastructure that every local council has to provide, I’m pleased that Orange City Council has a great record in building and continuing to support our community’s cultural life,” Cr McDonell said. 

“Places like this theatre continue to enrich our community and make Orange a fantastic place to live. 

Cr McDonell praised the theatre management on the upcoming season.

“The theatre management has done a fantastic job putting this season of shows together, and I’d encourage local theatregoers to make sure they get in early for tickets,” she said.

This season's highlights include something for everybody. There’s the return of internationally renowned theatre company, Bell Shakespeare with Twelfth Night.

Live music fans will be charmed by artists, Konstantin Shamray and Hania Rani who will be dazzling audiences on the piano.

The best stand-up comedians from The Sydney Comedy Festival and The Melbourne Comedy Festival will return to make crowds wild with laughter.

Children will be enthralled by fun and lively performances, such as Roald Dahl’s The Twits, Possum Magic and Mr Stink. 

For something provocative, Silence, produced by Karul Projects and BlakDance, is described as a show which can “pull the unresolved conversations from under the rug and slam them back on the table... because the conversation about a treaty will never be silenced.” 

If you’re somebody who likes to support local talent and see familiar faces onstage, our very own Orange Theatre Company will be putting on performances of School of Rock and Footloose.

Complementary memberships (formerly known as a subscription) are available for people who book at least five season shows in advance. Members’ benefits include first choice of seating, discounts and notice of other events at the theatre.

Paid memberships are available for $35 allowing the purchase of discounted tickets and benefits for the entirety of the season.