Canberra Theatre Centre
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Canberra Theatre Centre

4.5
·2k reviews·Canberra, Australia

Canberra's premier performing arts venue, hosting a wide array of theatre, music, and dance across its multiple spaces.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, better ticket availability

CrowdMedium
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Canberra Theatre Centre

Canberra Theatre Centre

Best Time

Weekday evenings

Fewer crowds, better ticket availability

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Canberra's premier performing arts venue, hosting a wide array of theatre, music, and dance across its multiple spaces.

4.5
(2k reviews)

"A diverse program of shows, but be prepared for a dated venue and potential parking hassles."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Strategy

Park at Westfield or other nearby lots; walking is often easier than finding close parking.

🎟️ Budget-Friendly Options

Look into ACT Hub for low-cost tickets or check LastTix for last-minute deals.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Diverse Performance Lineup

Diverse Performance Lineup

Main Theatre

Experience a wide range of theatre, from touring musicals to local productions and concerts.

Intimate Playhouse

Intimate Playhouse

The Playhouse

Discover smaller, more intimate performances in this dedicated venue, perfect for emerging artists.

Special Event Concerts

Special Event Concerts

Various Venues

Catch unique concerts and special performances, like the Air Force Band's anniversary shows.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Popular Shows

Tickets for major productions at the Canberra Theatre Centre sell out fast. Check the 'What's On' schedule and book your Canberra Theatre tickets well in advance, especially for musicals or well-known plays. Consider booking Canberra Theatre Centre tickets for popular events months ahead to secure your preferred seats.

Parking and Accessibility

Finding parking near the Canberra Theatre Centre can be a challenge. Many visitors suggest parking at Westfield Canberra or other nearby public car parks and walking. Be aware of the venue's older infrastructure; some reviews mention tight seating and dated facilities.

Best Times

When
Weekday evenings
Why
Fewer crowds, better ticket availability
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend matinees
Why
Family-friendly, good for all ages
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Not the news I thought I’d be posting today 🥲 Canberra will be missing out on a truly incredible theatre show #dearevanhansen #theatretok #theatrekid #musicaltheatre #australianmusicaltheatre #theatrenews #dearevanhansenau #greenscreen
@theatricallyalex
2.7K likes • 64.3K views

🚗 Parking Strategy

Park at Westfield or other nearby lots; walking is often easier than finding close parking. Reddit

🎟️ Budget-Friendly Options

Look into ACT Hub for low-cost tickets or check LastTix for last-minute deals. Reddit

Akhir minggu lalu mendapat kehormatan untuk menjadi pembicara penutup di Indonesia Update Conference 2023 di Canberra. Ini adalah konferensi tentang Indonesia terbesar di luar negeri yang sudah berjalan 40 tahun. Tahun ini topiknya tentang mengelola kota-kota di Indonesia. Senang bisa kembali ke Australian National University, tempat saya belajar 20 tahun lalu. Senang sekali bisa juga diskusi den...
@bimaarya.official
2K likes • 85K views
🎉 Today we celebrate 60 years of Canberra Theatre Centre and it wouldn’t be a celebration without YOU! 💫 To every single audience member who’s laughed, cried, clapped, and created memories with us over the decades - thank you. ❤️ We’ve loved hearing your stories throughout our anniversary year so far, and it’s not too late to share yours! You can submit yours online, just head to our website.
canberratheatrecentre
88 likes • 5.9K views

💺 Seat Comfort

Be aware that some seats are tightly packed and may require an overhaul. Reddit

💧 Bar Queues

Expect long lines at the bar; consider getting drinks before the show starts. Reddit

Only two sleeps till we're going back to Canberra! Get your last minute tickets via the Canberra Theatre Centre website. See you there! #canberratheatrecentre #comedy #canberracomedy #douganthonyallstars #goodnewsweek
paulmcdermottplusone
59 likes • 1.2K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Strategy

Park at Westfield or other nearby lots; walking is often easier than finding close parking. Reddit

🎟️ Budget-Friendly Options

Look into ACT Hub for low-cost tickets or check LastTix for last-minute deals. Reddit

💺 Seat Comfort

Be aware that some seats are tightly packed and may require an overhaul. Reddit

💧 Bar Queues

Expect long lines at the bar; consider getting drinks before the show starts. Reddit

⏰ Group Entry

If attending with a group, arrive early to avoid delays in ushering. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Canberra Theatre Centre offers a diverse range of performances, from musicals to concerts, with many praising the quality of the shows. However, some visitors find the venue dated, citing issues with cramped seating, limited fresh air, and parking challenges. Organizers are noted for needing to improve group ushering processes for families.

"Don't go if you are in any way claustrophobic. The seats are overly packed in and are not on enough of a raked floor. There's very little in the way of fresh air too, the production lets some theatrical smoke into the air so the "searchlight beams" can be seen before the show starts. They let people bring in booze so you can smell beer burps. I felt overwhelmed by the closeness of everyone and had to leave just before the show began. It seems like a terribly outdated venue. Before you even go in you can smell the toilets. What a waste of my money.....I really wanted to see 1984 😭"

Barry Miles

"I attended a showing of the Gruffalos Child today with my colleagues and children where I work.
Cannot fault the show, the performances were wonderful and was thoroughly enjoyed by children and adults alike.
However, the organisation of ushering groups in an appropriate time frame was poor to say the least. We arrived 10 minutes before the show started, but were made to wait 15 -20 minutes with our young children in the foyer.
After finally being shown where to enter the theatre, an employee referred to us as a public school when clearly the children were not of school age.
To cut my rant short. Please! You know how many groups of children will be attending your theatre. Manage how you receive them, provide courtesy updates if a problem has occurred and remember, young children should not be made to sit and wait as though they were adults.
Thank goodness we seasoned Educators have many tricks up our sleeves to keep them entertained!"

Helen Rossetto

"Visited recently to watch the Air Force Band - Victory in the Pacific 80th Anniversary Concert. It was excellent. The conductor, band, singers and MCs were wonderful. There was a film showing the horror and loss of war and the emotional ending of the war with images of celebrating in the streets. It was a very well done concert. Thank you. I hope peace will happen in many parts of the world."

Beth Hannen

What People Like

Quality of performances
Diverse show lineup
Good viewing angles

What People Dislike

Cramped seating
Dated facilities
Parking difficulties

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Canberra Theatre Centre is located at 3 performances, London Circuit, Canberra ACT 2601. It's centrally located in the CBD. Public transport options include buses that stop nearby on London Circuit. If driving, be prepared for limited on-site parking and consider nearby public car parks like Westfield Canberra.

On-site parking is very limited. Many visitors recommend parking at Westfield Canberra or other nearby public car parks and walking to the venue. Check local council websites for current parking rates and availability. Reddit

Several bus routes stop along London Circuit, which is a short walk from the Canberra Theatre Centre. Check the Transport Canberra website for the most up-to-date bus schedules and routes serving the city centre.

The venue aims to be accessible, with lifts and accessible seating available. It's advisable to contact the venue directly when booking tickets to discuss specific accessibility needs and ensure a comfortable visit.

Yes, there are usually designated drop-off points near the main entrance on London Circuit, which can be convenient for those with mobility issues or if you're being driven. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can purchase Canberra Theatre Centre tickets online through the official Canberra Theatre Centre website, by phone, or in person at the box office. For some events, tickets may also be available through authorized third-party sellers. TikTok

For budget-conscious theatre-goers, check out ACT Hub for low-cost tickets, or look for last-minute deals on platforms like LastTix. Some events, especially matinees, may also offer reduced pricing. Reddit

The box office hours can vary, but they are typically open during business hours on weekdays and may have extended hours on performance days. It's best to check the official Canberra Theatre Centre website for the most current box office opening times.

For popular shows, it's highly recommended to book your Canberra Theatre tickets in advance as they can sell out. While some tickets might be available on the door, it's not guaranteed, especially for major productions. TikTok

The main theatre has a seating capacity of approximately 1,200, while The Playhouse is a more intimate venue. Seating arrangements can vary depending on the production. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

Reviews suggest that while seats offer good viewing, some may be tightly packed and could benefit from an overhaul. The raking of the floor might not be ideal for everyone, and some visitors have found the seating to be uncomfortable. Reddit

Outside food and drinks are generally not permitted. There is a bar available for purchasing refreshments, though queues can be long. Some patrons have noted the smell of alcohol from other attendees. Reddit

The Canberra Theatre Centre hosts a diverse program including musicals, plays, comedy shows, concerts, and touring productions. They also feature performances by local companies and artists. Check their 'What's On' guide for current listings. TikTok

There is no strict dress code for most performances at the Canberra Theatre Centre. Smart casual attire is generally appropriate, but it's always a good idea to check the specific event details if you're unsure.

Latecomers are usually admitted during a suitable break in the performance to minimize disruption. However, this policy can vary by production, so it's best to arrive on time. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Canberra Theatre Centre has a bar where you can purchase drinks and light snacks. For a full meal, there are numerous restaurants and cafes located in the Canberra CBD, a short walk from the theatre.

Generally, food is not allowed in the auditorium, but drinks purchased from the bar are often permitted. Be mindful of other patrons and avoid disruptive eating or drinking. Reddit

The Canberra CBD offers a wide array of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Popular areas include Bunda Street and the surrounding streets, offering various cuisines to suit different tastes.

Information about cloakroom facilities can vary. It's advisable to check the Canberra Theatre Centre's website or contact them directly if you require cloakroom services for your visit.

Outside alcohol is typically not allowed. The venue has a licensed bar where you can purchase beverages. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography and videography are not permitted inside the auditorium during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and other audience members. Check with the venue or ushers for specific policies regarding lobby areas or before/after shows.

The exterior of the Canberra Theatre Centre, especially at night when it's lit up, can make for good photos. The surrounding London Circuit area also offers urban backdrops. TikTok

Policies on pre-show photography can vary. It's best to ask an usher or staff member before taking any photos of the stage or auditorium to ensure you're not violating any rules.

Yes, flash photography is almost always prohibited during performances as it can be distracting and disruptive to both performers and the audience. Ensure your camera flash is turned off.

Official production photos are usually shared by the Canberra Theatre Centre on their social media channels and website. You can also often find them on the websites of the touring companies or production houses.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Canberra Theatre Centre often hosts family-friendly shows, such as 'The Gruffalo's Child,' which are thoroughly enjoyed by children and adults alike. Reddit However, organizers advise arriving early, as group ushering can sometimes lead to delays in the foyer, which can be challenging with young children. Reddit The venue's seating might be a bit cramped for some families, so consider booking seats with a bit more legroom if available. Check the 'What's On' schedule for specific children's performances and book Canberra Theatre tickets in advance, as these are popular.

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious visitors, the Canberra Theatre Centre might require some strategic planning. While ticket prices are generally considered fair, some Reddit users suggest looking for cheaper alternatives like ACT Hub for performances or checking LastTix for last-minute deals on Canberra Theatre tickets. Reddit Parking can also add to costs, so consider public transport or walking from a more affordable car park like Westfield. Reddit Keep an eye out for special offers or membership deals that might reduce the overall expense.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Canberra Theatre Centre Experience

The Canberra Theatre Centre is a key cultural hub in the ACT, featuring three distinct venues: the main Theatre, The Playhouse, and the Courtyard. While it hosts a variety of performances, from large-scale musicals to intimate dramas, visitor experiences can be mixed. Some patrons praise the quality of the performances and the good viewing angles from most seats, while others point out the venue's age and some dated aspects. Reddit

Key considerations for visitors include booking tickets in advance, especially for popular shows, as Canberra Theatre Centre tickets can sell out quickly. Parking is a common concern, with many recommending nearby public car parks like Westfield due to limited on-site availability. Reddit The venue's infrastructure, including seating comfort and air circulation, has been noted as a potential drawback by some, particularly those sensitive to enclosed spaces or theatrical smoke. Reddit

Despite these points, the Canberra Theatre Centre remains a vital venue for arts and entertainment in Canberra, bringing a diverse range of high-quality productions to the city. Planning ahead for parking and being aware of the venue's characteristics can help ensure a more enjoyable experience.

Understanding Ticket Options and Value

Securing Canberra Theatre tickets involves several avenues, with the official box office and website being the primary sources. For those seeking more affordable options, the Reddit community suggests exploring platforms like LastTix for last-minute deals or checking out ACT Hub, which offers significantly lower ticket prices for certain events. Reddit

When considering ticket prices, it's important to weigh the value against the experience. While some reviews mention that ticket prices are fair for most events, others highlight the potential discomfort of the seating, which might detract from the overall value for some patrons. Reddit Matinee performances are often cited as a good value, particularly for families or those looking for a daytime cultural outing. Reddit

For those on a budget, actively searching for discounts and considering alternative venues like ACT Hub can make attending theatre more accessible. Always check the specific event details and venue policies when purchasing Canberra Theatre Centre tickets to ensure you're getting the best experience for your money.

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