Volunteers Behind the Curtain
Shining a Spotlight on the community powering The Empire’s success
As National Volunteer Week is celebrated across the country, one local story stands out for its scale, spirit, and significance—the remarkable contribution of the Friends of The Empire, a dedicated team of volunteers behind Toowoomba’s beloved Empire Theatre.
Since the opening of The Empire in 1997, this devoted group has played an essential role in shaping The Empire into the vibrant cultural hub it is today as the heart and soul of its operations.
With 207 members and 153 active volunteers collectively contributing more than 7,900 volunteer hours each year, their presence is felt in every corner of the precinct, from the entrance through to stage door.
Offering their time, energy, and enthusiasm to ensure every show is a memorable experience for audiences and artists alike, the Friends are familiar faces to anyone who has been to The Empire, welcoming patrons with warmth and professionalism, assisting with ushering, event support, hospitality, and more. They're also famous among touring performers for their home-baked biscuits, a warm and personal touch that’s become a hallmark of The Empire’s backstage hospitality.
The Empire General Manager, Giuliana Bonel said the contribution of the volunteers is not just valuable—it’s vital.
The Friends of The Empire are the lifeblood of our theatre.
Giuliana Bonel - The Empire General Manager
“It’s rare for an arts precinct to boast such a large and enduring volunteer base—and rarer still for that group to remain so engaged and enthusiastic over nearly three decades.” she said.
“The Empire’s volunteers have proven to be one of its greatest strengths; their unwavering support, passion, and tireless efforts allow us to continue to deliver a high standard of service and are something that truly sets The Empire apart.”
The Friends of The Empire President, Margaret Turnbull said the group is fuelled by a shared love of the theatre and a deep pride in what it represents for the region.
“The purpose of our group is simple—we support the theatre in any way we can. I think we are quite unique in having such a large and welcoming group of people to champion our theatre,” she said.
“Our volunteers are all very different people who have a lot of different interests, but what they have in common is that they love The Empire and love to show it off to our visitors.
“As a member of the Friends, you become part of a group where many wonderful friendships are forged, supporting a very busy precinct and promoting a magnificent icon in the Darling Downs.”
In a city known for its strong community spirit, the Friends of The Empire stand as a shining example of how local passion and volunteerism can build something truly lasting.
To learn more or become a Friend of The Empire, visit empiretheatre.com.au.
#What’s New
After nearly three decades of quietly setting the scene, the Empire Theatre’s iconic red curtain is taking its turn in the spotlight with the unveiling of a premium upgrade.
The final planes have departed The Empire following a hugely successful season of the hit Broadway musical, Come From Away, which wrapped with the final matinee performance on Sunday 23 March.
The mother of all romantic comedies, sashays onto the stage in a landmark debut for Queensland Theatre’s 2025 Season across two huge venues from 13 February to 9 March 2025.
The Empire has revealed the impressive lineup of 21 local performers set to bring the globally celebrated musical Come From Away to life this March.
After four sold-out shows in September of this year, Theatre of Magic is returning by popular demand to The Empire for a six-month series of performances.
The Empire Foundation has continued their commitment to supporting and nurturing the young performers of the region with the presentation of the 2024 Empire Youth Bursaries.
