- A theatre production in the northern Sydney suburb of Longueville was targeted
- At least 12 cars belonging to patrons and crew had their tyres slashed Saturday
- The theatre company president Lochie Beh says it was a homophobic hate crime
- Police patrolled the area during Sunday’s performances and are investigating
A theatre company putting on a play about a love affair between two gay men has been targeted in a homophobic attack.
Cars belonging to theatregoers and staff had their tyres slashed outside a church hall at Longueville in Sydney’s north on Saturday night.
Lane Cove Theatre Company president Lochie Beh said at least 12 cars had their tyres slashed in what he is calling a hate crime.
Cars belonging to theatregoers and staff had their tyres slashed (pictured) outside a church hall at Longueville in Sydney’s north on Saturday night
‘It was obviously intentional and it’s deplorable behaviour,’ Mr Beh said, The Daily Telegraph reported.
‘It’s very disappointing and hurtful that the culprits have taken the actions of violence and vandalism instead of coming forward and talking to us if they have any concerns.’
Police patrolled the area around St Aidan’s Anglican Church for duration of Sunday’s shows and are investigating the previous night’s attacks.
Witnesses or anyone with information should contact Chatswood Police or call Crimestoppers.
The play – Holding the Man – is based on the true story of two Sydney private schoolboys who fall in love, are diagnosed with HIV, and die within years of each other (poster pictured)
The vindictive act of vandalism follows previous incidents in which posters advertising the play around Lane Cove Plaza were torn down and ripped to pieces.
The play – Holding the Man – is based on the true story of two Sydney private schoolboys who fall in love, are diagnosed with HIV, and die within years of each other.
‘Holding The Man is a story about love and acceptance. The two main characters just happen to be men.
‘How can that be so appalling an idea to some people?’ the theatre company wrote on its Facebook page.
‘Remember — love is, always has been, and always will be love.’
The attacks come in the lead-up to Australia’s postal plebiscite on gay marriage, with ballots due to arrive in letterboxes after September 12.
Lane Cove Theatre Company president Lochie Beh said at least 12 cars had their tyres slashed in what he is calling a hate crime