Archbishop Fisher calls on NSW Government to cut funding for Divine Playhouse

Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP has asked the New South Wales Government to withdraw public funding from the Divine Playhouse arts venture. In an open letter to Arts Minister John Graham, the Sydney Archbishop argued that the program uses Catholic symbols and rituals to ridicule sacred practices.

The request follows the announcement of three events at the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia. Promotional materials for the October events include references to hymns, confessions, adoration, and processions. Archbishop Fisher stated in a video message that the organizers are deliberately trying to provoke Catholics and other Christians by ridiculing sacraments. He noted that the move from a former church in Kent Street to the museum does not address concerns regarding the treatment of Christian beliefs.

Divine Playhouse previously operated out of a deconsecrated church before its lease ended in July following protests from Christian groups. The venture reportedly received a $100,000 grant from Create NSW. While the Archbishop acknowledged the importance of artistic freedom, he questioned whether state money should support the sexualization or degradation of religious beliefs. The Museum of Contemporary Art describes the upcoming events as a celebration of creative expression, difference, and dissent.