Reflecting on 2025 A Year of Unprecedented Success at GTS
- simone0772
- 3 days ago
- 5 min read
2025 at Goodwood Theatre & Studios: A Year Built by Community
“2025 reminded us what’s possible when artists, audiences and community come together.”
2025 was a defining year for Goodwood Theatre & Studios, one that reminded us just how powerful the arts can be when artists, audiences and community come together.
It was a year of sold-out houses, award-winning work, bold new voices and packed foyers buzzing with connection. From Adelaide Fringe and VICTORIA LANE to residencies, exhibitions, State Theatre Company and many youth performances, 2025 didn’t just meet expectations, it exceeded them!
As we look back on what we achieved together, we also look forward with excitement to what lies ahead in 2026.
A Breakthrough in Theatre: The Guy Who Doesn't Like Musicals
“The success of emerging work in 2025 showed a growing appetite for new voices and creative risk.”
One of the standout moments of 2025 was the success of The Guy Who Doesn't Like Musicals, produced by Funk Soul Productions. This innovative show captured the attention of critics and audiences alike, earning the prestigious Critics Circle Award for Emerging Artists. The production’s fresh approach to storytelling and music challenged traditional musical theatre norms, drawing praise for its originality and emotional depth.
The award not only recognised the talent behind the production but also highlighted the growing appetite for new voices and experimental formats in theatre. This success story inspired other emerging artists to push creative boundaries and contributed to a vibrant theatrical landscape throughout the year.
You can see more from this award-winning company in 2026 with their production of The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee in January.
The 2025 Fringe Season: A Record-Breaking Run
“Fringe 2025 was a powerful reminder of the appetite for bold, curated work.”
The 2025 Fringe season was nothing short of extraordinary. With 80% of the entire season sold out, the festival demonstrated a strong connection between artists and audiences. This impressive turnout was supported by 13 award-winning shows, many of which enjoyed completely sold-out runs.
The diversity of performances ranged from theatre and comedy to dance and experimental art, reflecting the rich variety of talent within the community. Audience feedback consistently praised the quality, innovation and curation of the shows, making the Fringe season a highlight of the year for both creators and attendees.
SALA Collaborations and Residencies: Expanding Artistic Horizons
“This space is a home first and a theatre second - shaped by the people who walk through its doors.”
Beyond the stage, 2025 was enriched by powerful residencies and exhibitions that expanded how audiences engaged with art at GTS.
Residencies with Deus Ex Femina and Hart Street Art created space for deep creative exploration, while exhibitions by Hart Street Art, Sarah Bos Art and Edwin Harris-Faull brought contemporary visual art into our foyers and bar spaces. These works sparked conversations around identity, feminism and creativity, and welcomed new audiences through the doors.
State Theatre Company SA: Sold-Out Seasons and Award-Winning Production
“From experimental theatre to award-winning productions, 2025 raised the bar across every artform.”
The State Theatre’s 2025 Stateside lineup included American Song and Scenes with Girls, both of which achieved sold-out seasons. These productions resonated deeply with audiences, combining compelling storytelling with powerful performances.
American Song by award-winning company Flying Penguin Productions, explored themes of identity and belonging with a masterpiece delivered by one of Adelaide's finest performers. While Scenes with Girls by Deus Ex Femina offered a fresh and raw perspective on the unflinching dynamics of female friendship.
Hosting these productions reinforced GTS’s commitment to meaningful, high-quality work that resonates deeply with audiences.
Tracy Crisp: Drawing Enormous Audiences
“We’re immensely proud of this space, and even prouder of the community that fills it.”
2025 also saw Tracy Crisp present six shows as part of Adelaide Fringe, winning weekly awards and taking home the Frank Ford Adelaide Fringe Award. Her much-loved annual Christmas Letter Reading once again drew enormous crowds, cementing its place as a GTS staple - joyful, inclusive and uniquely unforgettable.
Youth Productions: Inspiring the Next Generation
“Seeing youth performances sell out reaffirmed our belief in investing in the next generation of artists.”
Youth performances continued to sell out in 2025, highlighting the community’s strong support for emerging talent. We proudly worked with many youth companies including CAPA, Adelaide Theatre Academy, Theatre Bugs, Cool Beans, and outstanding school productions from Emmaus College, Black Forest, St Spyridon and St Therese Primary Schools. These performances provided invaluable experience for young artists and unforgettable moments for audiences.
And So Much More
The year was also filled with memorable performances and events from Naomi Keyte, Theatre Republic, Adelaide Juggling Convention, SA Poetry Slam, Barber Shop Society, and many more each contributing to the rich, eclectic year that was 2025 at GTS.
Looking Ahead in 2026
“Together, we can keep building something bold, welcoming and unforgettable.”
Building on the momentum of 2025, the launch of the 2026 season promises even more exciting opportunities. With a foundation of successful productions, strong community engagement, and innovative partnerships, the coming year is set to continue this upward trajectory.
Artists and audiences alike can look forward to new works, expanded residencies, and events that celebrate creativity in all its forms. The achievements of 2025 serve as a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished when passion, talent, and community come together.
With Heartfelt Thanks
“This was a year of sold-out houses, bold ideas and a foyer buzzing with connection.”
We extend our sincere thanks to our local businesses, community groups, sponsors and funding bodies for standing with us throughout the year.
To our staff, your commitment, care and passion make everything possible.
To our artists, you inspire us and push us forward.
To our audiences, you are the heartbeat of GTS.
Together, we make this place what it is.
We hope to see you real soon!
Chris & Simi
xo
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