The Theatre Royal is Australia’s oldest continually-working theatre.
Construction and opening
In 1834, a group of Hobart’s business leaders decided to establish a permanent theatre for the colony, which was rapidly expanding.
The Theatre was designed by Peter Degraves, the founder of the Cascade Brewery. After the design was approved, a spot in Hobart’s working-class district of Wapping was chosen as the site for the Theatre.
Wapping in 1913.
Construction then got underway. The Theatre was built using stone carved by convicts.
It eventually opened in 1837.
Entertainment
Live theatre, the screening of films, music performances, boxing matches, political and religious rallies, and cockfights have been held at the Theatre.
The Theatre currently presents a yearly program of live theatre, music and dance performances, as well as entertainment. It’s also used for special events, meetings, conferences, and special gatherings.
The auditorium of the Theatre Royal.
Renovations
The Theatre has been remodelled, refurbished, and restored a number of times over the years.
It was first renovated in 1856 to increase audience capacity.
The stage area was remodelled in 1882 and 1890.
The entire Theatre was renovated on a major scale in 1911. Further changes were made in 1952.
A historical photograph of The Theatre Royal.
Fire!
In 1984, a fire destroyed the stage area and the front of the auditorium. There was also a lot of smoke and water damage.
A fire-ravaged Theatre Royal in 1984.
The Theatre subsequently underwent major repairs, which ended up costing $1 million ($3,132,653 in 2019 money).
It reopened in 1986.
The Hedberg Performing Arts Centre
In 2017, construction began on the Hedberg Performing Arts Centre, which will include the Theatre Royal and the University of Tasmania Conservatorium of Music.
It’s due to be finished this year.
The Hedberg Performing Arts Centre.
Re-opening after COVID-19
The team at the Theatre Royal is looking toward re-opening as the COVID-19 restrictions slowly start to lift. They are also planning an exciting 2021 season.
For a full, up-to-date list of shows affected by COVID-19, please check the Theatre Royal website regularly.
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The Theatre Royal in the 1950s
The compilation of silent footage below shows what the Theatre Royal looked like in the 1950s.
CALLUM JONES: The State Cinema – A History.
