Operators to bid for limelight at Sydney’s Theatre Royal

AAR Theatre Royal SydneyThe NSW Government has announced four theatre operators are being invited to progress with tender applications to reopen Sydney’s Theatre Royal.

NSW Minister for Arts Don Harwin said he is delighted by the enthusiastic response from the sector. “We have a shortlist of Australian and international theatre operators and producers that are creating a real buzz around about the future of musical theatre in Sydney,” he said.

“It’s exciting to take this project forward to the next milestone through this selective process, as we seek an operator who can deliver the very best plan to reopen this marvellous and historic theatre.”

Mr Harwin said reopening the CBD-based lyric theatre will increase Sydney’s capacity to host new productions and compete on the world-stage for more first-run international tours.

“In the next few years Sydney will welcome global productions like Waitress, Billy Elliot and Chicago plus the first international production of Frozen, – but we know NSW audiences are hungry for more,” said Mr Harwin.

“The re-opening of the Theatre Royal will deliver significant economic benefits to the city through employment and tourism and contribute to the vibrancy of the city’s night-time economy.”

NSW Minister for Tourism Mr Stuart Ayres said “More theatre space means more shows and events can come to Sydney and bring more tourists to experience the art and culture our city has to offer.”

Situated among retail and fine dining outlets, and transport links, the theatre, designed by Harry Seidler, will reopen to the public once a new operator is chosen. Theatre owners Dexus will redevelop the retail precinct surrounding the theatre concurrent to its anticipated reopening in 2021.

Image: Sydney’s Theatre Royal (sourced)