Our Future
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A new era of performance is on the horizon. The Canberra Lyric Theatre will be a world-class, 2,000-seat venue that completes the Canberra Theatre Centre’s suite of stages – the Courtyard Studio, The Playhouse, and Canberra Theatre – creating a true cultural heart for our city and a performing arts centre of national significance.
Designed with artists and audiences in mind, the Lyric Theatre will make it possible for Canberra to host the large-scale musicals, concerts and international productions that currently bypass the capital. From Australian icons like Hugh Jackman and Paul Kelly to global acts and world-renowned companies, audiences will no longer have to travel interstate for the biggest shows.
But this project is about more than a building. It’s an investment in Canberra’s cultural life and creative future – building jobs, skills and opportunities for local artists and crews, and drawing thousands of visitors into the city’s night-time economy.
The Canberra Lyric Theatre will ensure our city has a stage worthy of its talent and ambition – a place where creativity thrives, communities connect, and unforgettable experiences take centre stage.
Find out more about the project here.
August 2026
A significant milestone has been reached in the construction of Canberra’s new Lyric Theatre.
With foundation works nearing completion and the building beginning to emerge above ground, this landmark project is taking shape in the heart of the city.
The new venue will expand Canberra Theatre Centre’s capacity to attract major productions, support the growth of the local creative sector and deliver exceptional experiences for audiences for generations to come.
“This is an exciting moment for Canberra as we move closer to welcoming a venue unlike anything this city has seen before, transforming what our Nation’s Capital has to offer audiences and artists alike.
“With greater capacity and contemporary facilities, this new venue will enable us to attract major productions, strengthening the city’s place on the national touring circuit while delivering an exceptional experience for audiences from the moment they walk through the doors.”
Georgia Hendy
Canberra Theatre Centre Executive Director