Southbank Theatre
A contemporary performing arts venue and principal home of the Melbourne Theatre Company, distinguished by geometric facades inspired by abstract expressionism.
At a glance
Southbank Theatre is a modern performance venue in Melbourne’s Southbank cultural precinct, designed by ARM Architecture and opened in January 2009. The building houses two performance spaces and serves as the flagship venue for the Melbourne Theatre Company.
History
The theatre opened in January 2009 with a production of Poor Boy starring Guy Pearce. The building was constructed simultaneously with the adjacent Melbourne Recital Centre on Southbank Boulevard. In 2009, it received the Victorian Architecture Medal, the highest architectural award in the state.
What you see
ARM Architecture (Ashton Raggatt McDougall) designed a building whose most striking feature is its facade of distinctive geometric shapes. These forms were inspired by paintings of American abstract expressionist Al Held, creating a contemporary aesthetic that reflects artistic practice within the building itself. The interior contains Script Bar & Bistro, function rooms, foyers, and two foyer bars in addition to its performance spaces.
Cultural significance
As the home of the Melbourne Theatre Company, Southbank Theatre anchors Melbourne’s theatre district. Its award-winning design signals a commitment to contemporary architecture within cultural infrastructure, while the two performance spaces allow for diverse programming from large productions to intimate works.
Key facts
- Location: Southbank, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
- Coordinates: −37.82405556, 144.96827778
- Opened: January 2009
- Architect: ARM Architecture (Ashton Raggatt McDougall)
- Performance spaces: Sumner (559 seats) and Lawler (150 seats)
- Award: 2009 Victorian Architecture Medal
Practical information & getting there
Southbank Theatre is located on Southbank Boulevard adjacent to the Melbourne Recital Centre. For current performance schedules, ticketing, and venue access information, visit the Melbourne Theatre Company website or contact the venue directly.
Sources & resources
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