What’s On: Observatory Theatre Book Launch Bash

Observatory Theatre’s Book Launch Bash for AusArt Day

23 October 2025

16A Logan Road, The Tailors Bar, Woolloongabba

For AusArt Day 2025, local independent theatre company Observatory Theatre is throwing a big bash to celebrate the publication of not one but two of their original works – Disney Off Ice by Oliver Gough and Destiny Doomed by Anina-Marie van Wyk.

Observatory has been making waves for emerging playwrights in Queensland since 2021, and now they’re taking the next step in their support and commitment with these publications. Oliver and Anina are some of Brisbane’s brightest up-and-coming writers, and their freshly published plays reflect the imagination and ambition of their ideas. Hard copies of the publications will be available for purchase on the night.

Patrons can enjoy a complimentary drink on arrival, delicious canapes, live musical performances, and speeches from the writers themselves, all in a buzzing atmosphere. Observatory promises a sensational evening to remember and to show support for new stories that challenge, inspire and reflect our times.

*Creative development of a new play commissioned through Observatory Theatre’s Telescope New Writing Program. Photographed by Lucy Rayner-Toy*.

All funds raised go towards supporting Observatory’s playwriting programs – the Telescope New Writing program and the Focus Room program – as well as other new writing initiatives that are in the pipeline. Patrons will be helping the next generation of writers in Queensland and supporting vital opportunities for them to learn, grow and develop their craft. Observatory is committed to supporting emerging playwrights by developing and producing their work, giving them the opportunity to be recognised by audiences and industry alike.

*Image Credit: Geoff Lawrence, Creative Futures Photography*

Originally produced in 2024, Oliver Gough’s Disney Off Ice imagined a futuristic world where the man himself, Mr Disney, is woken up in the far future and comes to terms with a rapidly advanced world. The absurd play dives into issues of cancel culture, our obsession with nostalgia, and the powerful influence of brands.

Also produced by Observatory in 2022 to much acclaim, Destiny Doomed is a feminist retelling of the ancient Irish mythological legend ‘Deirdre of the Sorrows’. Fusing patriarchal critique and empowering narratives with song, sword fights and battle cries, this is one of local musician and writer Anina-Marie van Wyk’s best works to date.

For tickets and further information on the Book Launch Bash, and to pre-order the publications, visit the Observatory Theatre website