Source: Northern Territory Police and Fire Services
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Released 27/09/2025
Canberra’s new lyric theatre is progressing with the release of detailed designs inspired by Canberra’s iconic natural landmarks.
The performance venue will showcase views of Black Mountain and Vernon Circle, blending into the city’s cultural district and setting a new benchmark for accessibility and artistic experience in the ACT.
With bold architecture and large feature windows, the theatre building will glow with natural light by day and ambient light by night. A spacious northern forecourt will welcome public gatherings, and the building’s layered design will balance openness with intimacy.
“This will be a significant venue for Canberra – providing a theatre that enables world-class performances to be held in our city,” Chief Minister Andrew Barr said.
“The design reflects our landscape and celebrates First Nations culture with its use of natural forms and textures.
“Importantly, the detailed design also responds to the needs of the people who will watch performances, the performers who will take the stage, and the staff who will work in the venue, which has been guided by extensive community consultation throughout the planning and design process.
“People told us they care about comfort, good views from their seats, equal access for everyone, a strong connection to Country and more bathroom options.”
The detailed design includes:
- Seating for up to 2,000 people across three levels: stalls, dress circle and balcony
- Accessible seating on every level
- Equitable building access
- More bathrooms than required, including all-gender facilities
- A modern orchestra pit that can be adjusted for different performance sizes.
“With seating for up to 2000 people, the theatre will also deliver the scale and sophistication needed to attract the major productions our community has been waiting for.
“Every seat has been designed for a great audience experience and for people to feel close to the action.
“The space will feature accessible seating on all levels and a modern orchestra pit that can adjust for different performance sizes.”
The new images of the theatre are part of the main Works Approval application, which has been lodged with the National Capital Authority (NCA) and is now on public exhibition until 5pm, Monday 20 October 2025. The public are invited to view the designs and see how community feedback has shaped the project.
View the consultation at: https://www.nca.gov.au/planning/works-approval/wa-under-consultation.
Learn more at: https://yoursayconversations.act.gov.au/canberratheatreproject.
The new lyric theatre is planned for the area northwest of the current Canberra Theatre Centre, bordering Northbourne Avenue and Vernon Circle.
Site establishment and early works are expected to start from October 2025, subject to approvals, with main construction starting early next year.
– Statement ends –
Andrew Barr, MLA | Media Releases