Council supports popular production at Queens Gardens
Date published: 29 June 2022
One of William Shakespeare’s most magical plays will be performed at Queens Gardens after Townsville City Council awarded more than $32,000 towards this year’s Shakespeare Under the Stars production at this month’s Ordinary Meeting of Council.
Local production company TheatreiNQ has been granted the money through Council’s Grants and Partnership program, which will help them put on their version of The Tempest at the world-class botanic garden in September.
Community and Cultural Development Committee chairperson Ann-Maree Greaney said TheatreiNQ’s Shakespeare Under the Stars had a valued reputation as one of the most innovative presentations of Shakespeare in the country.
“Shakespeare Under the Stars attracts thousands of people to Queens Gardens each year it is held,” Cr Greaney said.
“TheatreiNQ have their unique take on the plays and often include music and dancing. It is just an entertaining night out for the community.
“Townsville’s arts and culture scene are booming, and events like this are always well supported. Previous years of Shakespeare Under the Stars had sold out within weeks of the event going on sale.
“Grabbing a picnic blanket and watching Shakespeare while sitting on the lawns at Queens Gardens with Castle Hill in the background is something everyone should experience.
“This event is also a great stage for some of our local aspiring actors and actresses to perform alongside professionals and in front of an audience.
“Shakespeare Under the Stars is a great local production and aligns with Council’s vision to develop home-grown entertainment and arts culture and help reinforce Townsville as the north’s cultural capital.”
Mayor Jenny Hill said Council’s grants program had returned millions of dollars in additional stimulus for the Townsville economy.
“Between February 2019 and March 2022, Council has distributed just over $2 million through the Grants and Partnership Program, which has generated an estimated $10.5 million for the region’s economy,” Cr Hill said.
“The program is designed to support events and initiatives which enhance the city’s liveability, encourage growth, promote safe and healthy communities, create jobs and protect the environment.
“An event like Shakespeare Under the Stars ticks many boxes and is sure to be well received by the community and local traders.”
For more information visit Council's Grants and Partnership Program page.
