Starlight Theatre traces its roots back to 1987 when it first emerged as Shakespeare Under the Stars under the visionary leadership of Glenn Elston, a pioneer in the realm of outdoor theatre experiences. Glenn later became the Artistic Director and Producer of The Australian Shakespeare Company in 1998, steering it towards becoming Australia’s premier independent theatre company.
For over three decades, Glenn's acclaimed annual outdoor productions of William Shakespeare’s masterpieces and enchanting renditions of The Wind in the Willows have captivated audiences across Australia and the UK.
Starlight Theatre brings its mesmerizing performances to new diverse locations, from the lush surroundings of Melbourne and Sydney’s Royal Botanic Gardens to the rugged landscapes of Kakadu National Park and now returning to Kew Gardens.
While renowned for its park and garden performances, Glenn Elston also crafts extraordinary productions for various indoor venues, tailored to specific communities and occasions.
In 2010, Glenn launched the Young Stars education program, catering to 7 to 18-year-olds. With this initiative, the company continues its mission to bring vibrant, contemporary theatre to life in the spirit of Shakespeare—accessible, dynamic, and thoroughly entertaining for all.
Glenn Elston OAM stands as the creative force behind the Australian Shakespeare Company, where he has pioneered the concept of outdoor theatre as a cherished, all-encompassing family tradition spanning three decades.
Glenn's impressive repertoire of productions features timeless classics such as A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Romeo and Juliet, Twelfth Night, The Taming of the Shrew, and many more. Additionally, he has lent his talents to writing and directing captivating stage adaptations such as The Wind in the Willows, Alice in Wonderland, and Jungle Book – The Next Chapter, among others. For the past 20 years, he has also co-presented Walking with Spirits, a celebration of the ancient Aboriginal tradition of Corroboree at Malkgulumbu (Beswick Falls) and produced two major tours through Northern Australia.
His influence extends beyond outdoor theatre, as he has produced and co-produced a diverse array of local, national, and international shows, including The Sir George Martin in Concert, Piaf, and Torch Song Trilogy.
Glenn's commitment to artistic excellence has been recognized with accolades such as the Melbourne Award for Contribution to Melbourne’s Profile by an Individual in 2014.
In more recent years, Glenn has taken his talents overseas, producing and directing enchanting performances amidst the scenic backdrop of London’s Royal Botanic Gardens Kew, with highlights including The Wind in the Willows and Alice in Wonderland.