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Most famous theater destinations in Oceania

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Sydney
Where urban life meets stunning beaches
8.7
Theatre Royal opened on October 5, 1833. Fires destroyed earlier buildings on the site in 1840, 1860, 1872 and 1892. J. C. Williamson's leased the theatre from 1882 to 1978. Harry Seidler designed the current building, which opened in 1976 on King Street. It closed in 2016 and reopened in 2021.
Highlights:
  • 🏖️ Relax on the golden sands of Bondi Beach
  • 🎭 Admire the Sydney Opera House from Circular Quay
  • 🌉 Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge for panoramic views
Melbourne
The heart of culture and coffee
8.7
The Princess Theatre began in 1854 as Astley's Amphitheatre. William Pitt rebuilt it and it reopened on December 18, 1886 with 1,452 seats. The baritone Frederick Baker died in 1888 during a performance of Faust. Staff kept a seat empty in his honour for many years. Phantom of the Opera set a Victorian record there.
Highlights:
  • 🏏 Watch a match at the Melbourne Cricket Ground
  • 🌆 Admire city views from the Eureka Skydeck
  • 🎨 Explore the laneways full of vibrant street art and cafés
Adelaide
Festivals, wine and laid-back charm
7.4
The Festival Theatre opened on 2 June 1973 beside the River Torrens. It seats close to 2,000 people. The Dunstan Playhouse seats 590. The Adelaide Fringe was inaugurated on 12 March 1960. In 2023 it became the first Australian festival to sell 1 million tickets.
Highlights:
  • 🏟️ Catch a game or event at Adelaide Oval
  • 🌿 Wander through the lush Adelaide Botanic Garden
  • 🛒 Explore fresh local produce at Adelaide Central Market
Brisbane
River City with a Laid-Back Vibe
7.7
The Queensland Performing Arts Centre opened in 1985 in the South Bank precinct. The Lyric Theatre seats about 2,000 and the Concert Hall about 1,600. The Playhouse seats 850 and opened in 1998. The Cremorne Theatre is a reconfigurable space for 277 people. The Glasshouse Theatre opened on 7 March 2026.
Highlights:
  • 🦘 Visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary and meet native wildlife
  • 🏖️ Stroll through South Bank Parklands and relax by Streets Beach
  • 🌉 Climb Story Bridge for breathtaking city and river views
Wellington
Creative capital by wild seas
7.1
The St James Theatre opened on Boxing Day 1912 and hosts the Royal New Zealand Ballet. The council bought it in 1993. Restoration finished in 1997 and it reopened in June 2022 after earthquake strengthening. Circa Theatre, founded by actors in 1976, moved into its purpose built home beside Te Papa in 1994.
Highlights:
  • 🦜 Explore Zealandia urban ecosanctuary’s rare wildlife
  • 🚠 Ride the historic Wellington Cable Car for city views
  • 🏛️ Visit the interactive Museum of New Zealand Te Papa
Auckland
Where Urban Life Meets Nature
7.5
The Civic Theatre opened on 20 December 1929 and reopened after restoration on 20 December 1999. Lighting creates the illusion of a night sky with twinkling stars. It seats 2,378 people, down from 2,750 at opening. It remains New Zealand's largest theatre. The foyer is Indian inspired and the auditorium follows a Moorish design.
Highlights:
  • 🌋 Climb Mount Eden for panoramic views over volcanic landscapes
  • 🍷 Cruise across Waitematā Harbour and visit Waiheke Island’s vineyards
  • 🌆 Take in sweeping city views from the Sky Tower
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