1301.6 - Tasmanian Year Book, 1998  
ARCHIVED ISSUE Released at 11:30 AM (CANBERRA TIME) 22/04/2004   
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Feature Article - Salamanca Theatre Company

Contributed by Deborah Pollard

Salamanca Theatre Company is one of Australia's oldest 'theatre for young people' companies. Originating from the Theatre in Education company established in Tasmania in 1972, the Salamanca Theatre Company has been providing quality theatre in schools around Tasmania for 25 years.

In addition to an annual touring season which brings performances to over 30,000 children and adults, the Company also runs residencies and workshops in schools, assisting them to develop their own productions and tailor theatre that is relevant to the local community.

The Salamanca Theatre Company has received recognition for its achievements in youth theatre; in 1988 the award of the Sidney Myer Performing Arts Award acknowledged the Company as a leader in its field. In 1992, the Company received the Australian Human Rights Award for Drama for its production of 'Highest Mountain, Fastest River', a story of the epic journey to Tasmania of the Hmong people of northern Laos.

To create work that remains relevant and entertaining to youth audiences, the Salamanca Theatre Company is dedicated to researching its material directly with young people. The Company uses media such as technology, contemporary music and art to stimulate, challenge and communicate with a youth market.