CINEMAX Cinema Kingscliff will hold a special screening of David Williamson’s Emerald City on Thursday as part of the Northern NSW launch of a new era for theatre.

The film – centred around a fictional screenwriter Colin, who is seduced by success – is part of a launch for new theatre company Australian National Theatre-Live (ANTLive).

ANTLive co-founder Grant Dodwell (aka Dr Simon Bowen on A Country Practice) said the company’s aim was to bring the theatre experience to smaller towns and recreate the atmosphere of a bygone era.

“I recall the pleasure that individuals and people got in small towns when a live show came,” Dodwell said.

“But that’s all been phased out and small towns just don’t get live theatre any more. We’re getting out to smaller towns and trying to get Australian stories to a far bigger reach.”

To do this, ANTLive has negotiated the filming of a number of plays and theatre productions through nine cameras, to provide a true theatre-going experience.

“We’re trialling in towns of 500-1000, so we can set up and screen into art centres, cinemas and community halls,” Dodwell said.

“People can expect a live theatre experience and within five minutes of walking in, you’ll feel like you’re part of a live show.”

Emerald City will screen at Cinemax Kingscliff on Thursday, July 21, Byron Bay on July 24, followed by stops in New Farm and Nambour on July 30 and 31.

Dodwell said it was the perfect production to launch the company in the region.

“David Williamson is one of Australia’s biggest playwrights and it’s funny, with excellent performances from lots of Sydney’s top actors,” he said.

• Visit www.cinemaxcinemas.com.au for screen times and ticketing.