7 of Victoria’s best regional theatres

Her Majesty’s Ballarat

This theatre is something of an institution and has been standing proud on Ballarat’s Lydiard Street for more than 140 years. Since 1875 Her Majesty’s Theatre has been drawing in performances from some of Australia’s leading theatre companies and artists (including the country’s longest-running eisteddfod, Royal South Street Society).

The theatre recently underwent major renovations to restore it to its former glory. If the building’s legacy isn’t enough, marvel at the design, featuring a double balcony and interior designed by William Pitt, the architect behind Melbourne’s Princess Theatre.

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Ulumbarra Theatre, Bendigo

Formerly Sandhurst Gaol, Ulumbarra Theatre was redeveloped in 2004 to become the impressive arts and community venue it is today. The name means ‘gather together’ in the language of the local Dja Dja Wurrung people, and it couldn’t be more fitting.

The auditorium fits 950 guests, treating them to international ballets, orchestral performances, concerts and nationally touring theatre performances, including hosting the world premiere of Ned: A New Australian Musical in 2016. Guests can also visit Cell 26 before performances, a former jail cell that tells the story of the prison.

The Capital, Bendigo

Not letting Ulumbarra get all the attention, Bendigo is also home to the Capital Theatre, a stunning Victorian-era, National Trust-listed building right in the heart of the city. (While you’re there, history buffs will also love Bendigo Tramways tours.)

Once the second-biggest hall in Victoria behind the Melbourne Town Hall, it’s been home to some of Victoria’s best theatre performances for more than 100 years, attracting both Australian and internationally acclaimed performers. With more than 200 performances each year, there’s something for everyone.

Geelong Arts Centre

Formerly Geelong Performing Arts Centre, the Geelong Arts Centre has a fresh new name but maintains the top-class level of performance locals and visitors have come to expect.

Hosting more than 200,000 visitors each year, Geelong Arts Centre is home to a diverse program of live performances, from the likes of Tony Award-winning musical Sunday in the Park with George to concerts from upcoming artist Amy Shark and Deakin university performances, in line with the centre’s appreciation for highlighting local talent.

The current Little Malop Street Redevelopment will see Geelong Arts Centre transformed into the largest regional arts centre in Australia with a unique design that reflects Geelong’s history, culture and creativity. 

Funded by the Victorian Government, the Little Malop Street Redevelopment will significantly expand the capacity of Geelong Arts Centre providing a 550-seat, 250-seat, a black box theatre, an outdoor atrium, more dining options, a new office and new back-of-house and administration facilities. The project is on track for completion in the second half of 2023.

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Lighthouse Theatre, Warrnambool

In the coastal town of Warrnambool, the Lighthouse Theatre offers an impressive line-up for the culture hungry. The theatre underwent a $9.3 million redevelopment in 2012, in a bid to inject new life into the region’s performing arts scene. Since then, the theatre has offered live performances ranging from an aerial acrobatic show to a cabaret about gin, so it’s safe to say it’s worked.

Horsham Town Hall

Not to be overshadowed by its bigger regional neighbours, Horsham is home to an impressive theatre, gallery and heritage hall in Horsham Town Hall. Balancing local performers with acts from around the country and overseas, it has made a name for itself as a thriving arts centre.

The recently redeveloped theatre boasts a fully accessible 500-seat capacity, with a full fly tower and the latest in audio-visual technology.

If you're craving more art whilst in town, head to Horsham Regional Art Gallery for one of the best regional galleries. 

West Gippsland Arts Centre

The major arts and performance hub for the region, West Gippsland Arts Centre began as a vision shared by a small group of passionate locals.

From nationally touring musicians to performances from the Victorian State Ballet, the venue sees a wide variety of shows, as well as hosting community events to support the growing region.

In 2018 the humbly sized venue completed a $14.1 million redevelopment, boosting the seat capacity from under 500 to 750 and increasing accessibility, honouring the original vision of the centre (an endeavour previously hindered by a lack of funds).