Stage is set to transform Canberra Theatre Centre

Together with Henning Larsen and Arup, Architectus is part of the winning design team set to transform the Canberra Theatre Centre.

Our vision is to create a vibrant, all-inclusive space that will become a world-class destination for artists and audiences in the heart of Canberra’s Civic and Cultural District.

Our team shares a long history of delivering globally significant cultural projects including the multi-award-winning Harpa Concert Hall in Iceland by Henning Larsen and Arup, and the Art Gallery of New South Wales Sydney Modern Building, which Architectus and Arup collaborated on as part of the design team led by SANAA. Architectus and Henning Larsen are also working together on several high-profile commercial projects in Sydney and Brisbane.

We will work alongside the Canberra Theatre, ACT Government and First Nations consultants, Yerrabingin, to deliver a theatre that holds its place in the context of Canberra’s ensemble of national culture and arts buildings.

The design vision for the Canberra Theatre Centre reflects and represents diverse cultures and voices. We see it as an internationally recognised cultural precinct with impeccable design credentials that serves as a new community meeting place for Canberrans, and a home for artists from across the globe.

Our winning tender includes early, preliminary designs for the new theatre building, featuring a bold and sophisticated façade that references the formal landmarks of Canberra.

“We will approach the design process through the lens of the audience and the performers,” says Architectus Principal and Public Sector Leader, Dr Stephen Long. “We will continue to work from the inside out to create a national theatre with an international reputation. We will also work from the outside-in to create a theatre that is enmeshed in the city and landscape.”

The project will be an exemplar of elegance, function and sustainability. As a world leader in theatre planning, Arup will collaborate with Architectus and Henning Larsen to ensure the theatre has the form and function it needs to support the highest-level national and international touring shows.

Our team will now start the design process with insights from theatre users and other technical experts. Stakeholders and the community will also have an opportunity to influence the project with consultation opportunities planned later this year.  

The design, consultation and approval processes will continue into 2024 and will inform planning for the project’s construction phase.

Find out more about the Canberra Theatre Centre.