Cirrus@Austlit

Although the Popular Theatre Troupe was established as a fully professional theatre company in April 1975, Erroll O'Neill argues that its history 'could be said to have started with Albert Hunt and the 1974 Festival of Arts.' He goes on to note:

Indeed, from that project right up to 1983, there was always a continuing membership with enough overlaps to ensure that the corporate memory and ideology of the PTT was continued. Some personnel stayed for long periods, some for short periods, some came back after an absence for a second tour of duty' ('The History of the Popular Theatre Troupe,' p.43).

Non-Original Productions: In addition to the original shows created and developed by members of the company, the Popular Theatre Troupe also presented a number of works written by other playwrights, including both Australian and international writers. These shows included:

• The Puny Little Life Show (1975) Written by Roger McGough (UK)
• Red Cross (1975) Written by Sam Shepard (USA)

Events: A number of productions (or events) staged by the company also fall outside AustLit's Scope. These include:

• Ross River Province event (1977). Staged as part of Townsville's annual Pacific Festival.
• Sunshine Superstate event (1977) Brisbane.

For further details see Steve Capelin. Challenging the Centre (1995), pp.68-69,and 72-73,