NEXT TO NORMAL
Directed by Jo Roberts
Seventeen, Matthew Whittet’s award-winning play, is a standout in Australian theatre. Set over one day, it follows a group of seventeen-year-olds, brought to life by a mature aged cast, as they navigate identity, friendship, love, and societal pressures. This poignant work captures the bittersweet nature of youth, blending self-discovery with the ache of growing apart. It resonates across generations: younger audiences see their present reflected, while older viewers revisit their past. More than just a play, Seventeen is a celebration of Australian storytelling, offering a nostalgic lens on youth, serving as both celebration and examination of such a pivotal time in life. Its witty dialogue and emotional depth transcend age, inviting anyone who’s weathered the storm of teenage years to reflect, laugh, and feel. Seventeen is a compelling yet sentimental exploration of youth and is sure to linger in the hearts of audiences long after the play is over.
SEASON
1-10 May
thu / fri / sat ~ 7:30pm
MATINEES
SATURDAY 2 MAY
SUNDAY 3 MAY
SAT URDAY 9 MAY
SUNDAY 10 MAY
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Membership opens the door to auditions for upcoming productions, allowing you to showcase your talents and collaborate with fellow theatre enthusiasts. If you’re not looking to perform, consider donating to support our theatre – your contributions help sustain productions and enrich the cultural fabric of our community.
SHOW ARCHIVE GALLERY
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In the spirit of reconciliation, Newcastle Theatre Company acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country, specifically the Awabakal people with which we share our land with today. Furthermore, throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Newcastle Theatre Company is committed to embracing diversity and eliminating all forms of discrimination. We welcome all people irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity. We are committed to creating a safe space for our artists to work and grow.
In the spirit of reconciliation, Newcastle Theatre Company acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of country, specifically the Awabakal people with which we share our land with today. Furthermore, throughout Australia and their connections to land, sea and community. We pay our respect to their Elders past and present and extend that respect to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Newcastle Theatre Company is committed to embracing diversity and eliminating all forms of discrimination. We welcome all people irrespective of ethnicity, lifestyle choice, faith, sexual orientation and gender identity. We are committed to creating a safe space for our artists to work and grow.









