Queensland Symphony Orchestra performing at Empire Theatre
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Empire Theatre

4.7
·1k reviews·Toowoomba City, Australia

Iconic Art Deco theatre hosting diverse live shows, from theatre to music, with stunning architecture and comfortable seating.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Experience the magic of live shows

CrowdMedium
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Queensland Symphony Orchestra performing at Empire Theatre

Empire Theatre

Best Time

Evenings

Experience the magic of live shows

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Iconic Art Deco theatre hosting diverse live shows, from theatre to music, with stunning architecture and comfortable seating.

4.7
(1k reviews)

"A beautiful Art Deco theatre, very classy and a very proud asset of the city."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows

Don't miss out! Popular performances sell out fast. Secure your spot early online for the best seats.

🍸 Enjoy a Pre-Show Drink

The theatre has a bar where you can purchase drinks to enjoy before the show or during intermission.

Third hero image

Quick Facts

Hours

Rating

4.7 · 1,197 reviews

Type

Performing Arts Theater

👶 Good for kids♿ Wheelchair accessible🅿️ Accessible parking🚻 Accessible restroom

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Art Deco Architecture

Art Deco Architecture

Marvel at the stunning, historic Art Deco design of this iconic theatre. A true visual treat!

Live Performance Experience

Live Performance Experience

Enjoy a diverse range of shows, from theatre and comedy to live music, in an intimate setting.

The Friends of The Empire

The Friends of The Empire

Experience the warmth of local hospitality, often marked by thoughtful touches like handmade cookies.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

Popular shows at the Empire Theatre often sell out. Booking your tickets online ahead of time ensures you get the best seats and avoids disappointment, especially for weekend performances. Check the official website for show schedules and booking.

Arrive Early for the Atmosphere

The Empire Theatre is a stunning Art Deco building. Arriving a little early allows you to soak in the architecture, grab a drink from the bar, and find your seats without rushing. It's a great way to start your evening.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Experience the magic of live shows
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekend Afternoons
Why
Family-friendly matinee shows
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

Two days in Toowoomba - best attractions

The Empire theatre is a magnificent old building and well worth checking out as well if you're into the arts. I think shows have resumed there.

🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows

Don't miss out! Popular performances sell out fast. Secure your spot early online for the best seats. Reddit

🍸 Enjoy a Pre-Show Drink

The theatre has a bar where you can purchase drinks to enjoy before the show or during intermission. Reddit

🚶 Easy Access & Parking

The theatre is easy to get to with convenient entry and exit points. Parking is generally straightforward. Reddit

🪑 No Bad Seats Here!

Reviewers consistently praise the excellent sightlines, ensuring a great view from any seat. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Book Ahead for Popular Shows

Don't miss out! Popular performances sell out fast. Secure your spot early online for the best seats. Reddit

🍸 Enjoy a Pre-Show Drink

The theatre has a bar where you can purchase drinks to enjoy before the show or during intermission. Reddit

🚶 Easy Access & Parking

The theatre is easy to get to with convenient entry and exit points. Parking is generally straightforward. Reddit

🪑 No Bad Seats Here!

Reviewers consistently praise the excellent sightlines, ensuring a great view from any seat. Reddit

🤝 Friendly Volunteer Staff

Expect a warm welcome from the helpful and friendly volunteer ushers and staff. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.7
(1k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Empire Theatre for its stunning Art Deco architecture, comfortable seating with excellent sightlines, and the warm, friendly atmosphere created by its volunteer staff. The diverse range of quality performances makes it a beloved cultural hub. Some minor issues might arise with specific show timings or availability, but overall, it's a highly recommended venue for a great night out.

"Great old theatre with a wonderful tech crew and great backstage facilities. Thank you for the hand made cookies from the friends of The Empire! All of us in the Music Of The Night team really enjoyed performing at this theatre and to the beautiful people of Toowoomba!"

Bill Kezelos

"Wonderful experience watching Adam's Family play. Incredible work of the director and the actors. Decorations were impressive. Light was awesome! Voices were so powerful. I really enjoyed watching them embrace the music. I'm in love!"

Alex McKey

"Easy to get to. Easy to get in and out of. Have bar to buy drinks that you can take in. Can see the stage from any seat you purchase, no bad seats. Overall the Empire Theatre is a good night out."

Andrew Logan

What People Like

Beautiful Art Deco building
Comfortable seating & great views
Friendly volunteer staff

What People Dislike

Show availability can vary

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Empire Theatre is located in Toowoomba, Queensland. It's easily accessible by car, with parking generally available nearby. Public transport options may also be available; check local Toowoomba transit information for the most up-to-date routes and schedules. Reddit

Yes, reviewers mention that parking is generally easy to find and access around the theatre, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. Reddit

While specific accessibility details should be confirmed directly with the venue, the theatre is described as easy to get in and out of, suggesting good accessibility. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Tickets can typically be purchased online through the official Empire Theatre website. It's recommended to book in advance, especially for popular performances, to secure your preferred seats. Reddit

The theatre's operating hours are generally tied to showtimes. It's best to check the specific schedule for the performance you wish to attend. Doors usually open shortly before the show begins. Reddit

While it's possible to purchase tickets at the door for some performances, it's highly recommended to book in advance to avoid disappointment, as many shows sell out. Reddit

Information on discounts or special offers is usually available on the theatre's official website. Keep an eye out for promotions, especially if you're a regular attendee or part of a group. Reddit

Refund policies can vary depending on the specific event and the theatre's terms and conditions. It's advisable to review the refund policy at the time of booking or contact the box office directly for clarification. Reddit

🎫 🎭 Onsite Experience

The Empire Theatre hosts a diverse program including theatre productions, live music concerts, comedy shows, and other performing arts events. Reddit

Reviewers consistently praise the comfortable seating with ample legroom, and importantly, excellent sightlines from all seats, ensuring a great view of the stage. Reddit+1

Yes, you can purchase drinks from the bar to take into the theatre. Reviewers have also mentioned receiving thoughtful treats like handmade cookies. Reddit

The atmosphere is described as fabulous, with a classy and proud feel due to its beautiful Art Deco architecture and friendly volunteer staff. Reddit

Information on backstage tours is not widely available in reviews, but it's worth checking the official Empire Theatre website or contacting them directly for any such offerings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Generally, photography is restricted during performances to avoid disturbing the artists and audience. However, you may be able to take photos of the theatre's interior architecture before the show or during intermission. Always check venue guidelines. Reddit

The stunning Art Deco architecture of the foyer and exterior provides excellent photo opportunities. Capturing the grandeur of the auditorium before a show is also recommended. Reddit

Flash photography is almost always prohibited during performances in any theatre to prevent disruption. It's best to assume it's not allowed unless explicitly stated otherwise. Reddit

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