The primary performing arts venue for the Australian Capital Territory, Canberra Theatre Centre buzzes with activity with a range of dance productions, comedy shows, musical theatre, drama, opera, puppetry, cabaret and even circus extravaganzas. It encompasses The Playhouse, the Canberra Theatre and The Courtyard Studio, which is used for smaller local production companies.

Though built in the 1900s, the architecture of The Playhouse mimics ancient Greek theatres and Elizabethan playhouses from the 1500s. It features semi-circular drum seating and traditional box-style seats nestled into two balconies for a total of 614 seats. The larger Canberra Theatre accommodates more than 1,200 patrons in an arched proscenium configuration spread across a single-raked tier.

Check the schedule for international visiting companies and national favourites, such as The Australian Ballet. You can also catch productions from the Sydney Theatre Company, Sydney Dance Company and Bell Shakespeare.

Getting there

Canberra Theatre Centre is located in Civic Square on London Circuit. Buses, trams and trains have multiple stops at the adjacent ACT Legislative Assembly and nearby Parliamentary Triangle. Lively bars and eateries along London Circuit and Bunda Street are a short walk away.