- Sydney has gained a new theatre in the Inner West suburb of Leichardt.
- Its opening musical show, The Addams Family, received a standing ovation on its first night.
- It’s funny, brilliantly performed – and has an amazing backstory involving the Commonwealth Bank and two well-known theatre veterans.
In a story that could itself be the plot of a musical, two Sydney theatre-makers, a circle of determined friends and the Commonwealth Bank have joined forces to breathe new life into one of Leichhardt’s most iconic – and long-neglected – cultural landmarks: the Italian Forum.
Last night, amid laughter, applause, and more than a few tears, the newly founded Teatro Theatre opened its doors for the first time with a spectacular, sold-out premiere of The Addams Family. It wasn’t just the debut of a new show – it was the rebirth of a community arts space and a testament to the courage, creativity, and sheer grit that keep Sydney’s theatre scene alive.
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A New Theatre for the Inner West
The crimson curtain rose inside the transformed Teatro Theatre at the Italian Forum on Norton Street. Once a cultural hub and social gathering point, the Forum has fallen on hard times. But now it has new hope thanks to actor and director Andrew Bevis and choreographer Nathan M. Wright, who decided to take an enormous leap of faith.
Both veterans of Australia’s musical theatre scene, Bevis and Wright, believed the Inner West deserved a vibrant, accessible space where professional and emerging artists could share the stage. But turning that dream into reality took more than passion.
The duo quite literally put everything on the line – bankrolling the venture with a loan secured against their own apartment, a risk few would dare to take.
“This is literally… we put our flat against this to do this,” Wright told the cheering crowd during his heartfelt speech on opening night. “And the Commonwealth Bank gave us a loan in four days. They believed in the project immediately, and we’re so thankful.”
Their gratitude extended to a host of supporters who joined the journey as early financial backer – and a shout out for the bank.
“Jill Hill from the bank and her team were just extraordinary,” Wright said. “They were inspired by what we were doing – a new community for the arts right here in Leichhardt.”
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From Broadway to Norton Street
If you’re going to launch a new theatre, The Addams Family is a brilliant way to do it. The Tony Award-nominated musical, with a book by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice (Jersey Boys) and music and lyrics by Andrew Lippa, is a perfect blend of heart, humour, and gothic charm.
As the music struck up the audiences were transported into the delightfully twisted world of Gomez, Morticia, and their offbeat clan. With its clever mix of laugh-out-loud comedy and heart-tugging sentiment, the show is a crowd-pleasing reminder that love and family can survive anything – even the Addams Family.
What makes this production especially powerful is its cast: an ensemble of Theatre Bridge students, handpicked for the inaugural season. Bevis and Wright’s commitment to nurturing young talent sits at the heart of their mission for Teatro.
“I’ve been in this industry for 35 years,” Bevis said from the stage, visibly moved. “When I was young, people gave me opportunities that changed my life. I always wondered, what would my contribution be back to the industry? I’ve had my turn, and now it’s time to give the next generation a chance.”
He paused, looking out at the cast – a mix of emerging artists and seasoned professionals. “It’s not just about the young performers,” he continued. “It’s about bridging the generations. Bringing together those who’ve gone before and those who are just beginning, so the inspiration flows both ways.”
A Standing Ovation for Courage
By the time the curtain fell, the packed house was on its feet. The applause wasn’t just for the characters on stage – it was for the founders themselves, and for the community they’ve reignited.
Theatre has always been about shared experience, and in this case, the audience could feel the pulse of something bigger than the show itself.
For the suburb of Leichhardt, Teatro is more than a theatre – it’s a revival. The Italian Forum, a ghost of its former glory, can once again be buzzing with energy, laughter, and life as a tribute to the Italian community. Hopefully, the cafes and restaurants can be revived.
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Why You Should See It
The Addams Family is playing at Teatro at the Italian Forum until 26 October with performances on Wednesday through Sunday. Tickets start from $65, and judging by the opening night’s reaction, seats will be snapped up fast.
Whether you go for the brilliant performances, the witty script, or simply to support two artists who refused to let their dream die, you’ll walk away grinning – and maybe a little teary.
Visit www.teatroitalianforum.com.au for tickets and event details.
