Canberra Theatre, Performance venue in Civic Square, Australia

Canberra Theatre is a performance venue in Civic Square featuring multiple halls for theatrical productions, dance performances, musicals, and concerts. The spaces are designed with contemporary technology and the program rotates throughout the year.

Canberra Theatre opened on 24 June 1965 with a gala performance by the Australian Ballet, the first government-initiated performing arts centre completed in Australia. The Playhouse, a 310-seat companion venue, opened on 18 August 1965 with Peter Ustinov's Romanoff and Juliet. The Playhouse was demolished and rebuilt, reopening on 16 May 1998 as a 618-seat semicircular auditorium modelled on Greek and Elizabethan theatres. A 2,000-seat lyric theatre is under construction from October 2025, due to open in 2028.

This venue presents both Australian and international productions, supporting local artists while bringing global performances to the Australian capital.

The venue is easily accessible with wheelchair access throughout, designated seating, and companion card arrangements for visitors needing assistance. Check the schedule before your visit to find shows that match your interests.

The Courtyard Studio, completed in 1982, houses one of the few electrically operated paint frames in Australia, used for painting stage set canvases. It also serves as a 90-seat performance space and rehearsal room.