Theatre Royal in Sydney. Image provided by Create NSW.
Part of a series of pages highlighting key recent major cultural infrastructure projects supported by Create NSW and other partners.
Project at a glance
The project refurbished and reactivated the Theatre Royal as a world-class theatre and live performance venue.
The origins of the theatre dates back to 1832. The more recent theatre was built in the 1970s and designed by renowned architect Harry Seidler.
It re-opened in December 2021 , after being closed since 2016.
The theatre is located within 25 Martin Place (formerly known as the MLC Centre)
The NSW Government partnered with Trafalgar Entertainment and the building owner, Dexus, to reopen the Theatre Royal for local and international productions, including musical plays, comedy, dance and opera.
Who it is for
The Theatre Royal project is for everyone who loves theatre, live performance, and culture.
The project supports the arts and entertainment sector, and helps attract visitors and tourists to Sydney. The theatre is now positioned to attract first-run international tours.
Who it involves
The project is a partnership between the NSW Government and other organisations.
In 2019, the NSW Government entered into a agreement with the owner of the building for a long term lease, to secure the theatre.
In July 2020, Trafalgar Entertainment became the new operator of the Theatre Royal, following an international tender/expression of interest process.
Dexus (the owner of 25 Martin Place, formerly known as the MLC Centre) managed the refurbishment works and provided new public spaces within 25 Martin Place.
Investments made by both Trafalgar and Dexus have ensured a significant upgrade to the theatre.
Dexus delivered the base building upgrades to the theatre and Trafalgar invested in the fit-out.
Trafalgar Entertainment operate and manage the Theatre Royal and program its artistic content.
- Buildcorp provided construction and refurbishment
- Scott Carver provided architectural design
- The project also involved Northrop (structural engineers) and Urbis
Special features
The Theatre Royal project:
- restores and enhances the theatre’s heritage features and Harry Seidler’s designs
- incorporates modern design elements and technology that improves the venue’s functionality, comfort, and safety.
New features include:
- Upgraded auditorium with new seating, lighting, sound, and stage equipment.
- New backstage area with improved dressing rooms, rehearsal spaces, and loading facilities
- New foyer and box office on Castlereagh Street, with improved access and visibility.
- New amenities, improved accessibility
- Updated dining and refreshment areas.
Timeline
- In July 2020, Trafalgar Entertainment became the new operator of the Theatre Royal, in a 55-year sublease.
- In August 2020, Dexus commenced construction on a $170 million redevelopment to rejuvenate the retail, dining and theatre components of the MLC Centre.
- In December 2020, Buildcorp was appointed to deliver a significant heritage refurbishment and fit-out for the Theatre Royal.
- In March 2021, Scott Carver was engaged as the architect for the project. In December 2021, the project was completed and the Theatre Royal reopened to the public.
- In 2022, the Theatre Royal hosted a range of first-class Australian and international productions.
More information
For more information about the Theatre Royal project, see Theatre Royal Sydney
Also see the links above or contact mail@create.nsw.gov.au