The Playhouse Theatre

Playhouse Theatre Perth: Visitor Guide, Historical Overview, and Ticket Information

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

The Playhouse Theatre in Perth, Western Australia, occupied a central role in the city’s cultural and performing arts heritage for more than five decades. Established in 1956 and demolished in 2012, its legacy continues to influence the city’s theatrical landscape. This comprehensive guide details the history and cultural significance of the Playhouse Theatre, practical visitor information for related sites, and tips for exploring Perth’s vibrant arts precinct.

For up-to-date events, tickets, and venue information, visit the Perth Theatre Trust, His Majesty’s Theatre, and State Theatre Centre of Western Australia. (Discovering the Playhouse Theatre Perth, Playhouse Theatre Perth: History, Visiting Hours, Tickets & Cultural Significance)

Introduction
Origins and Early Development
Architectural Design and Construction
The National Theatre Company Era (1956–1984)
Transition and Successor Companies (1984–2011)
Facilities and Audience Experience
Visiting the Playhouse Theatre Site Today
Travel Tips and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions and Cultural Context
Special Events and Guided Tours
Visitor Tips and FAQs
Legacy and Continuing Influence
Recognizing Indigenous Heritage
Plan Your Visit
Visuals and Further Resources
Useful Links

Origins and Early Development

The Playhouse Theatre arose from a community need for a dedicated venue for live theatre. By the 1940s, His Majesty’s Theatre had transitioned mainly to cinema, leaving local theatrical productions without a suitable home. The Perth Repertory Club, active since 1919, championed the cause, raising funds and rallying volunteers throughout the 1950s. The chosen site, adjacent to St George’s Cathedral on Pier Street, transformed an old tennis court into a beacon for the performing arts.

Architectural Design and Construction

Sheldon & Krantz designed the theatre with a classic proscenium arch and a 700-seat raked auditorium, ensuring excellent sightlines. A mural by Iwan Iwanoff, a celebrated local architect, enhanced the lobby’s artistic appeal. The Playhouse Theatre opened to a full house in August 1956 with John Patrick’s The Teahouse of the August Moon, marking the transition of the Perth Repertory Club to the professional National Theatre Company.

The National Theatre Company Era (1956–1984)

For nearly three decades, the Playhouse Theatre was synonymous with the National Theatre Company of Western Australia. Renowned for its diverse program—from contemporary drama to dance and comedy—the theatre hosted international stars and premiered significant Australian works, including Dorothy Hewett’s The Man from Muckinupin during the state’s sesquicentennial celebrations. Despite a major renovation in 1982, financial challenges led to the company’s closure in 1984.

Transition and Successor Companies (1984–2011)

After 1984, the Playhouse was managed by the Perth Theatre Trust and became home to various theatre companies, including Threshold Theatre, XYZ Theatre Company, and the Western Australian Theatre Company. From 1995 to 2011, it housed the Perth Theatre Company, remaining a pivotal venue for drama, dance, comedy, and Perth International Arts Festival events.

Facilities and Audience Experience

The Playhouse Theatre was beloved for its intimate 700-seat raked auditorium, traditional proscenium arch, and welcoming lobby. Amenities included a foyer bar and conference spaces, making it a vibrant meeting place for artists and audiences.

Visiting the Playhouse Theatre Site Today

Important: The Playhouse Theatre was demolished in October 2012. The original building no longer exists, and there are no entry tickets or visiting hours. However, the site remains a place of historical memory within Cathedral Square and the Supreme Court Gardens precinct.

Nearby Theatrical and Cultural Venues:

His Majesty’s Theatre: Offers guided tours and a full performance calendar.
State Theatre Centre of Western Australia: Opened in 2011, it is now Perth’s premier venue for live theatre.
Cathedral Square: The redeveloped area features public art and interpretive signage marking the Playhouse’s legacy.

For tickets and performance schedules, consult the Perth Theatre Trust or relevant venue websites.

Travel Tips and Accessibility

Getting There: Cathedral Square and related venues are accessible by public transport (train, bus) and are a short walk from Perth city centre.
Accessibility: His Majesty’s Theatre and the State Theatre Centre offer comprehensive facilities for patrons with disabilities.
Amenities: Public restrooms and cafes are nearby; the precinct is wheelchair friendly.

Nearby Attractions and Cultural Context

The Playhouse Theatre site sits in a vibrant arts and heritage district. Within walking distance:

St George’s Cathedral: An iconic Gothic Revival church open for tours.
Perth Town Hall: Historic civic building.
Art Gallery of Western Australia: Contemporary and classic exhibitions.
Perth Concert Hall: Renowned for its acoustics and live music.

Combine your visit with a stroll through Supreme Court Gardens or a meal at one of the area’s many cafes.

Special Events and Guided Tours

While the Playhouse no longer hosts performances, the precinct is home to major events:

Revelation Perth International Film Festival (July): Independent films at nearby venues.
UnWined Perth (May): Food and wine festival in Supreme Court Gardens.
Perth International Arts Festival: Diverse performances and exhibitions citywide.

Guided and self-guided walking tours—including heritage trails—are available through the Perth Visitor Centre.

Visitor Tips and FAQs

Q: Is the Playhouse Theatre still open?
A: No, it was demolished in 2012. The State Theatre Centre is now the city’s main venue.

Q: Where can I buy theatre tickets?
A: Purchase tickets for current performances at the State Theatre Centre, His Majesty’s Theatre, or via the Perth Theatre Trust.

Q: Are there guided tours?
A: Yes, at His Majesty’s Theatre and the State Theatre Centre. Check their websites for details.

Q: What are nearby attractions?
A: St George’s Cathedral, Supreme Court Gardens, Perth Concert Hall, and the Art Gallery of Western Australia.

Q: Is the precinct accessible?
A: Yes. The area is wheelchair accessible, with ample public facilities.

Legacy and Continuing Influence

Though the Playhouse Theatre is gone, its legacy endures through the State Theatre Centre and the continued vibrancy of Perth’s arts scene. The precinct honors this history with interpretive markers and ongoing events, while initiatives at the State Theatre Centre and His Majesty’s Theatre continue the tradition of fostering talent and community engagement.

Recognizing Indigenous Heritage

Perth’s cultural institutions acknowledge the Whadjuk people of the Noongar Nation as Traditional Owners of the land. This recognition is reflected in theatre programs, public art, and welcome ceremonies across the city’s venues. (Community Impact Hub - Traditional Owner Acknowledgement)

Plan Your Visit

Explore: Walk through Cathedral Square, visit nearby theatres, and enjoy local cafes.
Attend: Check show schedules and book tickets at the State Theatre Centre or His Majesty’s Theatre.
Engage: Join a festival or guided tour for deeper insights into Perth’s arts heritage.
Stay Connected: Download the Audiala app for real-time event updates and visitor tips.

Visuals and Further Resources

Historical images of the Playhouse Theatre (alt text: “Historic Playhouse Theatre Perth facade”)
Map of Cathedral Square and nearby attractions (alt text: “Map of Perth Cathedral Square cultural precinct”)

Useful Links

Summary and Recommendations

Although the Playhouse Theatre no longer stands, its profound influence on Perth’s cultural identity is evident throughout the city’s arts precincts. Visitors can honor this legacy by attending performances at the State Theatre Centre, exploring heritage landmarks, and participating in local festivals and guided tours. Stay informed via the Perth Theatre Trust and the Audiala app to connect with the dynamic arts community that continues to thrive in the spirit of the Playhouse Theatre. (Visiting the Playhouse Theatre Site in Perth, Playhouse Theatre Perth: Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Nearby Attractions)