Melbourne’s Malthouse Theatre has announced that it will continue with its production of The Events next week, despite its storyline being very close to the events of the Orlando nightclub shooting.

“In light of the recent acts of violence that occurred against the LGBTQI community in Orlando, Florida, Malthouse Theatre expresses sincere condolences for the victims of this tragedy and their families and friends. 

Matthew Lutton, Malthouse Theatre’s Artistic Director and co-CEO says, ‘The Events was written by playwright David Greig in 2012 as a response to the 2011 tragedy that occurred in Norway and devastatingly, his play is still as resonant today as it was five years ago.’

He continues, ‘Whilst we are not in a position to comment directly on the situation in Orlando, Malthouse Theatre expresses our extreme sadness that acts of violence and hate continue to occur. The works that we present on our mainstage are reflections on our contemporary world, and when The Events was programmed mid-year last year for presentation on our mainstage, no one could have anticipated that this calculated act of violence and hatred would occur.’

Malthouse Theatre confirms that the production will open next week as originally scheduled, but acknowledges and is deeply saddened by the unfortunate circumstances. Our thoughts are with those affected by the Orlando tragedy.”

In the US the season premiere of The Last Ship was delayed on Sunday night because its storyline featured similarities to the shooting.