Matchbox Theatre Company

Matchbox Theatre Company in the early 1990's ran on a co-operative basis and was attached to and supported by The International Dramatic Arts Studio. It comprised a changing but dedicated and enthusiastic group of Studio tutors, students and trained actors from the Sydney region - and sometimes from further afield - under the artistic direction of Brian Haig.

The venue, at The Old Casino in Rozelle, was small and intimate, seating fewer than 80 in the audience. It played to healthy audiences and developed a loyal following.

Matchbox specialised in - and became known for - presenting avant garde material. The greatest success was achieved with their production of Edward Albee's absurd drama, "Zoo Story" , featuring James Gow and Brian Haig. (Director ~ Brian Tenwick.) Writer and critic, David Wansborough, acclaimed it as surpassing any production of this play that might have been seen in New York or London's West End.

Sadly, like the ending of so many such Theatre Company projects, Matchbox Theatre Company's demise was a bitter and acrimonious one - and one in which the parent company was left with a number of debts to service. However, it is to its lasting credit that several of the players have gone on to make their own distinctive marks within the profession as writers, actors, tutors , teachers or administrators.

Brian Haig (left) and James Gow (right) in "Zoo Story".