The Sydney Theatre Company (STC) has faced backlash and controversy following a pro-Palestine protest on stage during the company’s performance of Chekhov’s The Seagull. After three actors appeared wearing the Palestinian keffiyeh at the curtain call, the STC issued a public apology, acknowledging the harm and offense it caused the community. The company emphasized that it was not the intention of the actors to cause any harm or offense. Despite this, the flea board member of the STC, Judi Hausmann, resigned following the protest.
On Nov. 29, the STC abruptly cancelled its flagship performance of The Seagull just hours before it was scheduled to begin. This decision came after pressure and backlash from the local Jewish community and other patrons who were deeply affected by the political gesture made on stage. Hausmann, who faced pressure to distance herself from the STC, expressed disappointment in the company’s response and urged a “one-night pause” of performance to allow time to craft a resolution that would be acceptable to all parties.
Several patrons and supporters voiced their concerns and dismay at the political stunt, while others expressed support for the actors and their right to free speech. The Media Entertainment and Arts Alliance indicated that it would support members disciplined by their employer for expressing their views. This controversy comes amid a fragile four-day ceasefire between Israel and Palestine.