Tip of the cap to Matt

The Shedley Theatre’s green room has been named in honour of long-time supporter and Adelaide arts identity, the late Matt Byrne. Matt got his start in the industry in the 1970s as a performer with the Northern Light Theatre Company, regularly treading the boards at the Elizabeth-based theatre.

He went on to become one of South Australia’s most renowned theatre producers and performers and after a 40-year career in the industry, continued to refer to The Shedley as “his home”.

At the recent unveiling of a plaque on the green room door, Matt’s brother, Wayne Byrne (pictured) and close friend Jeff Lang spoke of his dedication to bringing the arts to the north. “Matt would be touched and humbled by this honour,” Wayne said. “The plaque is a wonderful acknowledgement of Matt’s passion and perseverance to provide the theatre-loving people of the northern districts the opportunity to see world class shows at the Shedley. “Matt would want to acknowledge the many people that worked with him on the various productions. Without their hard work, enthusiasm and dedication the shows wouldn’t have been produced.” A friend of 25 years and fellow theatre devotee, Jeff Lang first met Matt at a production of Grease by the Northern Light Theatre Company at The Shedley. “A side effect of being in a ‘Matt show’ was that he became part of your life, whether you wanted it or not,” Jeff said.

“Matt staged productions at numerous theatres, but he often said to me, ‘Mate, the Shedley is my home’.” Dedicating the green room to Matt, Mayor Glenn Docherty paid tribute. “Matt dedicated his life to theatre and the arts and inspired many people with his commitment,” the Mayor said. “Council is pleased to name our theatre’s green room in his memory. He is sorely missed.” Mr Byrne passed away in 2021 aged 63.