Brisbane’s new $184 million theatre at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) begins its fit-out stage with a name.
The Glasshouse Theatre will become the fifth venue at QPAC, making it Australia’s largest performing arts centre under one roof.
State Arts Minister John-Paul Langbroek said the new name was chosen following a month-long consultation process that gathered more than 5000 responses.
Minister Langbroek said members of the public were invited to choose from four options Glasshouse Theatre, Lantern Theatre, Watershed Theatre and Russell Street Theatre, or suggest an alternative.
“The vote gathered significant interest and Glasshouse Theatre was the clear frontrunner, recognising the stunning glass façade.”
He said the Glasshouse Theatre would have the capacity to accommodate the highest technical and artistic demands of the latest touring blockbuster productions.
“The design is visually stunning with a sweeping staircase, spacious bars and amenities and an auditorium, finished off with sustainable Queensland ironbark timber.”
Minister Langbroek said the Glasshouse Theatre was on track to be completed by the end of the year, before audiences were welcomed in 2026.
“When the Glasshouse Theatre opens next year, it will make QPAC the largest performing arts centre in Australia under one roof,” Minister Langbroek said.
“This will enable even more locals and visitors to the State to experience world premieres, national exclusives and outstanding work from the State’s leading arts companies.”
QPAC Chief Executive Rachel Healy said the announcement of the new theatre’s name signalled a landmark step in the venue’s journey.
“The naming of the Glasshouse Theatre coincides with the next phase in the venue’s construction, arguably the most exciting part of the project, which is the fit-out of all the details that distinguish it as a theatre,” Ms Healy said.
“We are delighted to see dressing rooms being fitted out, the stage all set, orchestra pit installed, bars and foyers coming together and 1500 seats in place.
“We’ll soon be announcing the performances that will comprise the opening season and also our plan to host an ‘open house’ that will allow our community to come through and help us test it out before we officially open.”
