Just one of many events to celebrate Canberra Theatre Centre’s 60th anniversary is a rare glimpse behind the curtain.
The venue is hosting a free open day on Saturday 10 May.
Canberra Theatre Centre executive producer Lisa Freshwater said the behind-the-scenes tour last took place a decade ago.
“Looking forward, we’d be looking to do it more often,” she said.
But for now, this is the only opportunity for this type of experience at the venue.
“This is the only time we’re opening our doors to the public to the open house to see the machinations and magic of the Canberra theatre,” Ms Freshwater told CD.
“People can come through the back of house area; they can peek into the dressing rooms where they might see performers preparing for the stage.
“They can come onto The Playhouse stage and experience what it’s like to stand on the stage, do a soundcheck, be under the spotlight and understand what stagecraft is.
“It’s an experience — they really get to be the performer on stage — no talent required.”
Ms Freshwater said visitors could also watch technical demonstrations, learn about the venue’s history — and what the next 60 years will look like — and learn about career paths.
She said there would also be plenty of family-friendly activities, including a photobooth with dress ups to try on, stage style make-up face painting, food trucks and sweet treats.
Ms Freshwater said the visitors could also take part in the Memory Capture Project.
“People can talk about their experiences and memories of being part of the Canberra Theatre Centre [across the past 60 years],” she said.
“It started online but there will be the opportunity to be filmed and interviewed to be able to be part of that memories [project] which we’ll be putting together throughout the year.”
The open day will run on 10 May from 10am-5pm. Entry is free, but registrations are encouraged at canberratheatrecentre.com.au/show/ctc-open-day-2025
The venue also partnered with Braddon-based brewery BentSpoke Brewing Co to celebrate the anniversary with the release of a limited-edition commemorative beer.
Ms Freshwater has dubbed the Canberra Theatre Centre branded tropical flavoured Hazee Hazy Pale Ale as “your last taste of summer”. The beer is available to purchase at the venue’s Link Bar.
Running concurrently is the 50th anniversary of Sidney Nolan’s gift to the nation at the Canberra Museum and Gallery (CMAG) next door.
There will be a range of free things to do at CMAG from 10am–4pm, including curator led tours of the Nolan Gallery, an exclusive peek behind the scenes and viewing conservation works in action.
The family-friendly activities include a treasure hunt, a painting station and chalk art experience.
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