Curtain to lift on grand theatre's new lease of life

Victoria's historic State Theatre, now known as the Ian Potter State Theatre, is set to reopen its doors to the public for the first time since its $1.7 billion Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation project began in March 2024. The £27 million refurbishment project, which began in March 2024, has been completed six months ahead of schedule and even within budget, according to Arts Centre Melbourne Reimagining director Chris King.

The 2000-seat theatre, one of the largest in the southern hemisphere, has undergone significant improvements, including state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, new seats, and restored heritage-listed interiors. A key aspect of the renovation has been the enhancement of disability access, featuring improved wheelchair positions in the stalls that King describes as "a real game changer."

The most significant changes are the improved access and accessibility, according to King, who noted that getting to seats was often a challenge due to the length of the rows. The introduction of two new aisles has addressed this issue without compromising the overall commerciality of the seating arrangement.

The reopening event will feature a First Nations-led concert, marking the culmination of the theatre's transformation that has been an icon of Victoria's creative scene for four decades. Creative Industries Minister Vicki Ward expressed her delight at the milestone, stating that the theatre has returned 'better than ever and six months ahead of schedule.'