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Queensland Theatre POTUS performance cancelled due to mystery illness

Queensland Theatre POTUS performance cancelled due to mystery illness

In the latest artistic bombshell in Brisbane, the Queensland Theatre has cancelled the entire three-week run of a show, citing illness among the cast.

POTUS, or behind every big idiot are seven women trying to keep him alive, is a comedy by American playwright Selina Fillinger centering on the staff of a fictional American president.

POTUS cast members in rehearsal: Paula Arundell, Jodie Le Vesconte, Amy Ingram, Christen O'Leary and Emily Burton, Emily Liu.

POTUS cast members in rehearsal: Paula Arundell, Jodie Le Vesconte, Amy Ingram, Christen O’Leary and Emily Burton, Emily Liu.Credit: Etienne Henry

The production’s opening night had been postponed a few days ago due to a reported illness among the cast, but on Friday the show was canceled in its entirety.

“Last night the difficult decision was made by the Queensland Theatre Board to cancel our season of PRESIDENT… due to health issues affecting some of our wonderful cast,” the company announced on social media and in an email to ticket holders.

“The entire company is saddened for you, our audience and supporters, as we always want to provide you with the exceptional theatrical experiences you love and deserve. However, the well-being of our cast, creatives and crew is our top priority,” the statement read.

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When this outlet contacted Queensland Theatre, a spokesperson said specific details about cast members and health issues were not available due to “privacy and security measures”.

“The timing of these health issues and the delay surrounding rehearsals for this production have unfortunately made it difficult to reconfigure to Queensland Theatre standards,” the spokesperson said.

The play, a White House farce with an all-female cast, features offstage characters resembling former U.S. President Donald Trump, Hillary Clinton and Hunter Biden.