Her Majesty’s Theatre redevelopment nearing completion

Anticipation is building at Her Majesty’s Theatre as the beloved venue edges closer towards a grand reopening.

With works now primarily focusing on installing the two lifts, upgrading fire protection in the auditorium and completion of the Unicorn Lane fire escape, the project remains on track for completion in mid-2024.

It is expected the doors to the iconic theatre will re-open to the public in the third quarter of 2024.

The Stage 3 works being undertaken will improve the capability, accessibility, and safety of the 149-year-old theatre.

In addition to the two new lifts which provide full accessibility to the theatre for patrons, staff and performers, the completion of the project will also see an improved front-of-house area, new toilet facilities, administration area, and associated compliance works.

Works are significantly advanced throughout the theatre with the major demolition and structural works now almost complete.  

This includes new southern escape stairs and reconfiguration of the back-of-house area. The back-of-house area is key to providing the accessible pathway from Lewis Street to Lydiard Street South.  

Works in the theatre are now moving towards final fit out and finish in many areas, with finished colour schemes evident through the new administration hub.  

Installation of joinery including the ticket box and bar is yet to commence, with most items now in production off-site.  

Works to upgrade the back-of-house amenities is underway and fire protection upgrades throughout the building are ongoing.

The Her Majesty’s Theatre Stage 3 Redevelopment was identified by the City of Ballarat as a priority project. Successful advocacy on behalf of our community has seen funding secured from the State Government to deliver this project.  

The project is supported by $10,000,000 from the State Government’s Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund and $6.3 million from the City of Ballarat.

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison joined City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Des Hudson and construction contractors Nicholson Construction for a tour of the theatre on Wednesday.

Cr Hudson said the $16.3 million project would ensure the long-lasting legacy of Her Majesty’s Theatre as a significant and integral part of Ballarat’s creative and artistic life.

“I’ve been delighted to see these works progressing throughout and cannot wait until we can have the facility open again,” he said.  

“Restoring such a grand venue that dates back to the 1870s certainly comes with its challenges, but it is promising to see the project remain on track and edging nearer completion.”

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said the substantial government investment had helped secure the future of the theatre.  

“The Allan Labor Government’s $10 million investment into Her Majesty’s restoration and redevelopment guarantees the theatre’s future and makes it accessible to all,” she said.

“I am thrilled that many generations of patrons and performers to come, will enjoy this remarkable venue, particularly those who have not been able to previously.”

The City of Ballarat will soon be calling for Expressions of Interest for community and commercial hire of Her Majesty’s Theatre.

More information on the Expressions of Interest will be released in the coming days.