HANDSPAN THEATRE

HANDSPAN THEATRE was established in Melbourne, Australia in 1977. The company flourished for a quarter of a century, closing in 2002... The company was a unique and, at the same time, a classic artistic community of its era. It survived longer than many such self-generated groups, sustained by the passion, vision and commitment of its founding and key artists. Like a rock 'n roll band, Handspan created hits and failures; was driven by dynamic personal partnerships and relationships, and suffered from their breakdown; it coalesced at the right time for its artists and their work was right for its time... After two decades, Handspan's artistic energy began to wane and its collective operation became unsustainable. At the same time as original artists diverged towards independent careers and obligations, Handspan became an institution with a formalised artistic leadership and dependence on Government grants. It was the time to take the band off the stage.