Sydney Theatre Company has issued an apology in regard to the opening night action taken by three actors in its production of Andrew Upton’s adaptation of Chekhov’s The Seagull.

It also cancelled the following Wednesday night performance at short notice with some audience members having already arrived at the theatre and most on their way.

Published on the STC’s website, the apology is a wide-ranging one:

“We understand the actions at the curtain call and our immediate response has hurt many in our community. For this, we are deeply sorry.”

We support individual freedom of expression but believe that the right to free speech does not supersede our responsibility to create safe workplaces and theatres.

We believe that it was not the intent of the actors involved to cause any harm or offence. We have emphasised to our performers that they are free to express their opinions and views on their own platforms.”

STC says it will be “reviewing our policies to ensure our artists, staff, audiences and supporters have a safe and respectful space to work in, and to share in theatre.”

The statement comes in the wake of a fraught 72 hours for the company. Judi Hausmann, who served on the Remix Organising...