Name
State of Play: At the Box Office
Date & Time
Tuesday, April 28, 2026, 2:30 PM - 3:15 PM
Speakers
Duane Hatherly, Mediaweek
Barbara Stephen, Flying Bark Productions
Damian Keogh, The HOYTS Group
Edwina Waddy, Roadshow Films
Greg Denning, StudioCanal ANZ
Paul Wiegard, Madman Entertainment
Schuyler Weiss, Bazmark
Duane Hatherly Barbara Stephen Damian Keogh Edwina Waddy Greg Denning Paul Wiegard Schuyler Weiss
Description

The stakes around every theatrical release in Australia continue to increase. For distributors, exhibitors, and producers, the question is no longer just what works, but what’s worth the risk? This session brings together leaders from across the theatrical ecosystem to unpack the realities of the market in 2026. From release strategies and audience behaviour to the economics behind acquisition and greenlighting, this session will explore what it now takes for a film to succeed on the big screen. Together, we’ll explore what’s cutting through, what’s no longer viable, and how the theatrical sector is adapting to a more selective and high-pressure environment.

 

Produced by Danielle Redford.

Moderated by Duane Hatherly.

 

Location Name
Event Centre - Plenary Room
Full Address
The Star Gold Coast
1 Casino Dr
Broadbeach QLD 4218
Australia
Session type
Panel
Brought to you by
Screen Territory
Genres
Animation, Children’s Television, Documentary, Feature Film, Games, Scripted Television (Eg Drama or Comedy), Short Film or Online, Unscripted Television (Eg Light Entertainment or Reality)