We’re designing the new home of Australia’s capital of culture – Canberra Theatre Centre
Alongside our collaborators, Architectus and Arup, we have been chosen as the team to transform the Canberra Theatre Centre into a vibrant, multi-event, all-inclusive space that will be the anchor project for the future of Canberra’s Civic and Cultural District - creating an internationally recognised arts precinct.
In consultation with First Nations peoples, the consortium of design leaders will create community spaces and a world-class destination for artists and audiences in the heart of Canberra.
The design vision for the Canberra Theatre Centre is an environment that reflects and represents diverse cultures and voices. An internationally recognized cultural precinct with impeccable design credentials that serves as a new community meeting place for Canberrans, and a home for artists from across the globe.
Commenting on the win, Henning Larsen Partner and Design Director, Viggo Haremst says, “We are honored to have been selected for the renewal of the Canberra Theatre Centre. Our design ambition is for the centre to become a national landmark and an international destination, drawing artists and audiences from around the world to Canberra’s new cultural heart.”
“Together with Architectus and Arup, we’ve approached the design with great care considering the architecture, interior design and landscaping to create a vibrant and inclusive place that honors the history and beauty of the land. A cultural hub that celebrates the community, its diverse heritage, and artistic expression, where people come together to share in the power of performance and storytelling,” he continues.
The winning tender included early preliminary designs that depict a new theatre building with a bold and sophisticated façade treatment, and which references to the formal landmarks of Canberra.
"The redeveloped Canberra Theatre Centre is a city shaping project that will bring us closer to our vision for Canberra to be recognised as Australia’s arts capital. It has been great to see how the Design Partner has understood and shares our vision for a world-class venue with architectural excellence befitting its location as the heart of the planned Canberra Civic and Cultural District. Our vision for the renewed Canberra Theatre Centre will support the growth of Canberra’s live performance sector by creating spaces for artists and arts workers to develop, rehearse and perform productions," says Minister for the Arts, Tara Cheyne about the project.
ACT Government Chief Minister, Andrew Barr looks forward to seeing the designs take shape:
"The renewed and expanded venues will attract events and performances that currently by-pass Canberra because our current facilities are too small. Our city will be able to host the top tier productions we currently miss, including the contemporary music, comedy, circus, musicals, ballet and opera. This investment will support our economy, particularly the tourism, hospitality and accommodation sectors."
Design, consultation and approval processes will continue into 2024 and will inform planning for the project’s construction phase.
