BREAKING: Melbourne’s iconic State Theatre will reopen its doors six months ahead of schedule, a significant milestone in the $1.7 billion Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation project. The announcement was made by Arts Centre Melbourne CEO Karen Quinlan, alongside Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks and Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts Harriet Shing, who confirmed that the venue will welcome back performers in October 2026.
This early reopening marks a pivotal moment for the performing arts scene in Melbourne, enhancing both audience experience and accessibility. “The refurbishment of Arts Centre Melbourne’s historic State Theatre is a great milestone,” said Quinlan. She emphasized the extensive work done to honor the original design by John Truscott while significantly improving comfort for audiences.
The revamped Ian Potter State Theatre features one of the largest stages in the world, larger than four tennis courts, and serves as the home ground for resident companies, including The Australian Ballet and Opera Australia. Minister Brooks expressed enthusiasm about the venue’s return, stating, “This is a huge achievement for Arts Centre Melbourne and the Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation.”
The refurbishment includes enhanced accessibility features, such as new seating options across all three levels and the addition of two new lifts, ensuring a more inclusive experience for all attendees. “We are delighted to be refurbishing a cultural icon,” said Harriet Shing, highlighting that the project is set to create over 11,000 jobs and reinforce Melbourne’s status as Australia’s arts and culture capital.
Following the reopening, further upgrades will be made to the Arts Centre Melbourne Theatres Building, which will include a new accessible stage door and expanded facilities for rehearsals and dining. Opera Australia CEO Alex Budd expressed excitement about the venue’s revitalization, noting, “The refurbished theatre will give our audiences a richer, more vibrant experience of opera at scale.”
Artistic Director of The Australian Ballet, David Hallberg, also shared his enthusiasm: “We’re thrilled that the Ian Potter State Theatre will reopen ahead of schedule, heralding a new era for artists and audiences alike.”
The Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation project, recognized as Australia’s largest cultural infrastructure initiative, will also feature a new expansive 18,000 square metre urban garden named Laak Boorndap, along with a landmark gallery, The Fox: NGV Contemporary.
Stay tuned for more updates as Melbourne prepares to celebrate the return of its beloved State Theatre. This reopening not only revitalizes a historic venue but also promises to enhance the cultural landscape of Australia.
