The ACT Government is seeking construction industry expertise to finalise the design and to begin planning for construction of the expansion and renewal of the Canberra Theatre Centre.

The project will include a new 2,000-seat lyric theatre, suitable for opera, musicals, and ballet; a refurbished Playhouse and Canberra Theatre; and an expanded studio theatre for local artists to perform intimate shows.

Suitably experienced and qualified contractors may submit an Expression of Interest by 13 August to work with Major Projects Canberra and the Cultural Facilities Corporation on the project.

The government will assess the Expressions of Interest, then invite shortlisted tenderers to respond to a Request for Tender.

The successful tenderer will highlight how their experience and capability will integrate project objectives with design, plans for construction, optimising delivery outcomes and timeframes, and provide value for money.

The project’s design partner, led by Architectus, Henning Larsen, and international theatre designers Arup, will support the process.

The ACT Government and Design Partner have consulted stakeholder groups, a performing arts reference group, the community, staff, and the local and national performing arts sector.

The selected construction industry partner will be announced in early 2025. For more information, visit tenders.act.gov.au.

“The new Canberra Theatre Centre is part of a consistent pipeline of infrastructure developments being delivered in our city,” Chief Minister Andrew Barr said. 

“The revitalisation of the Centre will enhance our city centre as a lively destination for entertainment and dining, day and night, as the centrepiece of the Canberra Civic and Cultural District.

“It will strengthen our economy by attracting cultural tourism to Canberra and create more jobs in the arts, hospitality and construction sectors.”

Arts minister Tara Cheyne said: “Canberra will be able to attract the world-class performances Canberrans currently have to spend a lot of money on travel and accommodation to see.

“This is a city-shaping project — not just in physical presence but in what it will deliver for the arts, arts workers, our audiences, and our creative economy throughout all of Canberra.”