Pulse Group Theatre

Since the closure of the TAP Gallery at the end of last year there has been a general sense of helplessness about the decline in suitable spaces to house independent theatre in Sydney. That is why the opening of Pulse Group Theatre in Redfern brings some very welcome news. Not only does it signal the launch of a new theatre company, but the space will also be available for incoming productions.

In many ways a natural offshoot of the The Actor’s Pulse, an acting school that’s been running for about 15 years, the venue comprises two theatre spaces holding between 50 and 65 people, as well as a TV studio. Artistic Director Billy Milionis sees it as filling a unique role in the area: “There is a need for intimate theatre in Sydney. At about 120 square meters, this is a pretty cool little space.”

Drawing inspiration from the New York theatre scene in its formative stages, Milionis sees this initiative as a chance to bring a touch of the old city life back to Sydney, with little pubs and theatre spaces here and there, as well as an artistic hub for actors.

“I studied under Sanford Meisner, one of the founding members of the Group Theatre in New York, who then went on to form The Neighbourhood Playhouse Theatre. Actor’s Pulse is very much modelled on this, and is a home base that our actors can come back to,” said Milionis.

Kicking off its inaugural season is a slick production of Craig Wright’s dark comedy, Grace. In it’s Australian premiere, Grace is a confronting, clever and sometimes oddly funny examination of humanity under pressure.

Grace – Until July 26. Pulse Group Theatre, Upstairs Theatre, 103 Regent Street, Redfern. $25. Tickets: www.stickytickets.com.au/pulsegrouptheatre
Theatre info: facebook.com/PulseGroupTheatreCo