The ACT Government is funding the next stage of the Canberra Theatre Centre revitalisation in the 2024–25 Budget.

Major Projects Canberra will collaborate an industry partner which will be engaged through an early contractor involvement (ECI) delivery model.

They will work in partnership to complete the project.

A two-stage process will begin in July to confirm the industry partner.

Construction approvals for the redevelopment will be sought in 2025.

The expanded Canberra Theatre Centre will enhance Civic as a live entertainment and hospitality destination.

This will provide opportunities for Canberrans to come together and connect, and will lead to more jobs.

A transformed Canberra Theatre Centre

The Canberra Theatre Centre revitalisation will create a performing arts centre of national and international significance. It will include:

• a new 2,000-seat lyric theatre (suitable for musicals, opera and ballet)
• a refurbishment of The Playhouse and Canberra Theatre
• expanding the studio theatre for flexible use by local artists for intimate shows
• improved accessibility and connections to the precinct
• hospitality offerings, including bars.

Project benefits

This project offers benefits for the whole community.

• First Nations Connection to Country are celebrated and acknowledged through design.
• Canberra will be able to attract and enjoy world-renowned musicals, circus shows, ballet and opera without the need for expensive interstate travel.
• Canberra will have a world-class theatre and cultural precinct.
• More visitors to the ACT will grow the local economy.
• The city centre will be enhanced as a lively destination for dining and entertainment – day and night.
• The project will create more jobs in the arts, hospitality and construction. With more career pathways for emerging creatives and technicians, more arts workers will remain in Canberra.
• The Centre will be a safe and welcoming place for everyone.
• The revitalised Canberra Theatre Centre will feature sustainable, green-star all-electric design.
• The project will generate more opportunities, networks and audiences for Canberra’s performing arts sector.

Share your thoughts on the centre's design

Previous community consultation responses highlighted that the centre's design should prioritise:

• First Nations Connection to Country
• Accessibility requirements for people with disability, mental health conditions and neurodiversity
• High-quality audience experience and usability
• Connection to the wider entertainment precinct.

The ACT Government wants to explore these ideas further with specific stakeholder communities.

Dedicated engagement sessions are planned, both in person and online.

Personal experiences and insights shared in these sessions will help ensure better access, inclusion and diversity in the design.

Register your interest and the team will be in touch to understand your requirements to enable your attendance.

Find out more on the Built for CBR website.

Get ACT news and events delivered straight to your inbox, sign up to our email newsletter:

Subscribe to Our CBR