In Pictures: First look at The Princess Theatre relaunch

Image of an empty theatre with red stage curtain

2 minutes read

The curtain rises on Brisbane’s newest home for live music and the arts, The Princess Theatre.

At 133 years old, The Princess is Queensland’s oldest standing theatre; a bricks-and-mortar slice of Brisbane’s rich history.

This Brisbane icon has completed its transformation, lovingly refurbished by The Tivoli owners, brothers Steve Sleswick and Dave Sleswick, alongside co-owner and prominent Brisbane businessman Steve Wilson.

“ The Princess was created as a theatre in 1888, originally known as the South Brisbane Public Hall. We feel it’s vital for us to reclaim the building for Brisbane’s vibrant world-class arts sector and return it to the community to be used as it was originally intended. ”

Located in the burgeoning historic district of Clarence Corner, adjacent to the Mater Hospital, The Princess is the jewel in the crown of Woolloongabba’s emerging entertainment and lifestyle precinct, just minutes’ walk to both South Bank and the new Woolloongabba Cross River Rail transport hub.

The thoughtfully restored State Heritage building is home to a state-of-the-art performance auditorium designed for a standing capacity of 920 and a seated theatre capacity of 520. It features four bars, a public café, private event spaces, a rehearsal room, a co-working creative office and workshop space and an outdoor courtyard.

The Princess assembled a strong team of local creatives and professionals to steer all aspects of its redevelopment; including leading heritage architect JDA, whose work includes the revitalisation of Elizabeth Picture Theatre; interiors expert Sophie Hart and builder Herron Coorey. The venue also underwent a substantial identity rebrand under the expert guidance of Bigfish.

The Aruga team is along for the ride as well, lending our PR, marketing, design and copywriting expertise to The Princess Theatre’s relaunch to ensure its smooth and successful royal rebirth.

Here' a backstage tour of the stunning new venue.

Black and white image of The Princess Theatre building in Brisbane — A Brisbane classic – constructed in 1888, The Princess has lived many lives in its long and colourful history. Image: John Feely

Image of The Princess Theatre interior with seating and red stage curtain. — Old-world charm with a modern makeover.

View from the stage of the interior of The Princess Theatre — View from the stage. Note the attention to detail in restoring the theatre’s characteristic features.

Detail of the refurbishment of The Princess Theatre bar area. — A touch of class, fit for suburban royalty.

View of the stage of The Princess Theatre with band playing and lighting. — Let the show begin.

Dining area in the refurbished The Princess Theatre — Dine out in royal style.

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