Southbank Theatre, Modern theatre in Southbank, Melbourne, Australia.
Southbank Theatre is a contemporary performance venue in Melbourne's Southbank precinct with two distinct spaces. The larger Sumner hall seats 559 people, while the smaller Lawler studio accommodates 150 for experimental works.
The venue opened in 2009 as the principal home of the Melbourne Theatre Company, launching with a production of Poor Boy starring Guy Pearce. The building subsequently received the Victorian Architecture Medal for its design.
The building's exterior displays geometric patterns inspired by American abstract expressionist Al Held. The interior spaces are named after directors John Sumner and Ray Lawler.
The venue is fully wheelchair accessible and provides FM hearing systems for performances. Convenient parking options with discounted rates are available in the surrounding area.
The complex houses Miss Pearl Bar + Dining, serving Asian-inspired cuisine. Two foyer bars allow visitors to enjoy food and drinks before and between performances.
Location: City of Melbourne
Inception: 2009
Part of: Melbourne Arts Precinct
GPS coordinates: -37.82406,144.96828
Latest update: December 11, 2025 11:08
Eureka Tower
429 m
Australia 108
394 m
National Gallery of Victoria
181 m
Sidney Myer Music Bowl
560 m
Arts Centre Melbourne
421 m
Capital City Trail
489 m
Princes Bridge
537 m
93–119 Kavanagh Street
508 m
Hamer Hall
419 m
Vault
229 m
Sandridge Bridge
632 m
Australian Centre for Contemporary Art
294 m
Melbourne Recital Centre
25 m
Freshwater Place
621 m
Alexandra Gardens
522 m
State Theatre
322 m
Malthouse Theatre, Melbourne
346 m
St Kilda Road
393 m
MPavilion
314 m
Australian Music Vault
255 m
Repatriation Commission Outpatient Clinic
545 m
Australian Performing Arts Collection
419 m
Eureka Skydeck
429 m
Forward Surge
386 m
Queen Victoria Memorial
446 m
Marquess of Linlithgow Memorial
434 m
Boer War Monument
376 m
Melbourne University Boat Club Shed
551 mVisited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes