Mercury Theatre Wynnum is calling on the Manly community to help shape the future of local theatre, inviting public feedback through a newly launched survey.
A Legacy Staged in the Bayside
Mercury Theatre Wynnum Incorporated, a volunteer-led community theatre and registered charity, has been a fixture in the bayside communities of Wynnum and Manly since 1949.
Founded by Winifred Davson MBE, Mercury Theatre Wynnum was established to enrich the Waterloo Bay area through the performing arts, providing a cultural platform in a district once distant from Brisbane city opportunities.
The first production, Milestones by Arnold Bennett-Edward Knoblock, was staged on 7 July 1949 at the Star Theatre in Wynnum Central. Although the Star Theatre was later destroyed by fire in 1959, Mercury Theatre Wynnum continued to thrive, finding a new performance home at the heritage-listed Manly-Lota RSL Memorial Hall.
Photo Credit: Mercury Theatre Wynnum
The Stage Is Yours, Manly
Mercury Theatre Wynnum’s mission remains focused on providing an inclusive space for amateur performers. It also creates productions that inspire audiences. The organisation, entirely powered by volunteers, produces live theatre shows, events, and workshops throughout the year, aiming to foster local talent and community spirit.
The latest initiative invites Manly residents to complete a short online survey. The theatre seeks community views on the types of shows locals want to see, what would encourage greater attendance, and any additional ideas to help shape future productions.
Photo Credit: Mercury Theatre Wynnum
Hearing the Bayside’s Backstage Voices
Mercury Theatre Wynnum acknowledges that not every resident may be familiar with the group’s longstanding presence. By engaging directly with the public, the organisation aims to strengthen community ties and ensure that future productions reflect the interests and desires of the wider bayside community.
The survey, which only takes around two minutes to complete, forms part of broader efforts to maintain Mercury Theatre Wynnum’s relevance and accessibility in a changing entertainment landscape.
Photo Credit: Mercury Theatre Wynnum
Keeping the Curtain Rising
With over 75 years of history behind it, Mercury Theatre Wynnum continues to look ahead, seeking direct input from the Manly community to guide its future direction. The theatre remains committed to being a central part of bayside cultural life, offering opportunities for both seasoned performers and newcomers to contribute to its next chapter.
Published 30-Apr-2025
