The Joan's Q Theatre has recently built a long table, and over the next three months, three artists will each curate a month's worth of activities around the table for the public to enjoy.
Autumn's Long Table is curated by leaders from local Culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD), LGBTQI+ and First Nations, communities with the view of creating a space for discussion, celebration and reflection on their diasporic culture.
Each month will feature panels, parties, workshops, catch-ups, cups of tea and will culminate in a final night-time gathering filled with art, food and drink. The doors are open, the tickets are free, RSVP online at www.qtheatre.com.au for details.
"The Long Table welcomes new audiences and regular attendees to take their seat at the table and connect with community, friends, food, performance and Q Theatre," said Nick Atkins, project director.
The curator of April's events is writer, director, producer and actor Vonne Patiag. Titled Homeland, the month of activities will focus on CALD communities and features:
A play-reading of Miranda Aguilar's play Let Me Know When You Get Home, about a queer/ethnic intersectional coming-out story set in western Sydney. Wednesday, April 10, 7-9pm.
A cultural dinner when CALD will come together to discuss their artistic and business practices. On Monday, April 15, 7-9pm.
And a party to celebrate CALD, with performances, music and food, on Wednesday, April 24, 6.30-9pm.
Patiag said: "I see the long table as an opportunity for CALD artists and community to gather in a space not often seen as public-facing. Western Sydney is a particular region where diverse cultural groups seemingly exists side by side, and it's important to activate communal spaces where there can be a cross-pollination of ideas and experiences."
May's long table program will be curated by LGBTQI+ artist Bhenji Ra while June's program will be curated by Dharug, Dharawal-Muringal-Baragal artist Vanessa Possum. See www.qtheatre.com.au.
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