Who is Canberra Dramatics?

Canberra Dramatics is a community of theatrical artists working in their chosen medium with the purpose of espousing Christian life principles and bringing the power of God into the places where Canberrans experience theatre. We seek to relate to both audiences and professional peers in this endeavour, furthering the Canberran church’s pursuit of Christ’s Great Commission in every way possible. Biblical principles are the foundation upon which Canberra Dramatics is built, and everything we do is influenced by our Christian heritage.

Our vision is that a light will shine in the theatres of Canberra and the darkness will not overcome it.

Why Canberra?

Canberra is a very interesting city because its concerns are at once national and local. It is a city that was founded by a nation, and all the people of that nation seem to think they own it, but this city is not merely a seat of government. It is not a dumping ground for public servants. This is a city that has been tested by fire and has survived as a community. People raise children in this city. People celebrate life in this city. People suicide in this city. People build careers in this city. People suffer in this city. People live in this city. And that’s what Canberra Dramatics focuses on: the people of Canberra and how they live and what they value and what they despise.

How are we dramatic?

Canberra Dramatics defines theatre in its broadest sense. Drama is a form of storytelling that is distinguished from literary or oral storytelling traditions by its use of the human body to enact the events it depicts. Drama is unique in that it may utilise any one or all of the elements of every other art form. Theatre employs the principles of drama in social media such as stage, screen, and radio.

Theatre is a dynamic political action, and is a source of spiritual enlightenment for the whole spectrum of Australian society. Theatre employs storytelling to its utmost potential, whether on stage, screen, or audio media, and Canberra Dramatics seeks to employ all of these media in the fulfilment of its vision.