The design for the Canberra Lyric Theatre is now on public exhibition, marking a step forward in the transformation of the city’s Canberra Civic and Cultural District.
Designed for the ACT Government by COX Architecture in collaboration with Yerrabingin, Charcoal Blue theatre consultants and Arcadia Landscape Architecture, the new theatre will be a world-class performing arts venue that reflects Canberra’s cultural aspirations. At its heart is a 2,000-seat auditorium that establishes a new benchmark for cultural inclusivity, accessibility and artistic excellence in Australia.
Underpinned by community and Country
The design vision for Canberra Lyric Theatre is the outcome of extensive engagement across community groups including LGBTQIA+ communities and First Nations peoples.
A Country-led approach underpinned the design process, supported by First Nations design partner, Yerrabingin. Rooted in deep listening, design pillars and principles make space for the architecture to become a living, breathing extension of Country.
“We wanted the design to reinforce Canberra Lyric Theatre’s unique identity – one grounded in cultural respect, continuity and storytelling,” said Joe Agius, Director, COX and project design lead.
“As a project of national significance, it was vital that the design harmonise with Canberra’s civic fabric while also affirming the role of cultural infrastructure in shaping a shared identity – one that’s shaped by our First Nations heritage as well as the diversity of contemporary Australia.”
“This project honours and celebrates its unique place in Country, connecting audience and performer through a shared experience of acknowledgment,” said Christian Hampson, Co-founder and Director of Yerrabingin.
A cultural landmark in the country’s Capital
The reimagined theatre will be a cornerstone of the Canberra Civic and Cultural District, welcoming audiences, artists and communities into a space designed for all. It will expand the city’s capacity for major performances while also offering intimate experiences for diverse audiences.
The venue’s inclusive design ensures universal accessibility and equitable experiences for patrons and performers alike, reinforcing its role as a destination for creative expression, culture and community.
Design highlights include
- A sculpted architectural form defined by verticality, layering and veiling, that filters light and frames views to Black Mountain and Vernon Circle.
- Spatial reconfiguration of the public domain that creates welcoming public spaces, supports intuitive movement and aligns with the future precinct plans.
- A new main entry oriented to the future Theatre Plaza, creating a welcoming civic forecourt and strengthening urban connections.
- A reconfigured auditorium that enhances intimacy and acoustics, while reducing mass along key public frontages – achieved by the creation of stepped terraces of 1,000-seat stalls, 500-seat circle and a 500-seat balcony.
The Canberra Lyric Theatre represents a once-in-a-generation investment in cultural infrastructure, embedding respect for Country, strengthening civic life and creating a legacy for the people of Canberra and Australia as a whole.
The new images of the theatre are part of the main Works Approval application, which has been lodged with the National Capital Authority (NCA) and is now on public exhibition until 5pm, Monday 20 October 2025. The public are invited to view the designs and see how community feedback has shaped the project.
