At 49 Market Street in Sydney’s CBD, the State Theatre is a heritage-listed performance venue that opened in 1929. Its Gothic-influenced exterior gives way to a richly decorated interior, with grand staircases, mosaic floors, marble columns, statues and chandeliers. The building is worth seeing even if you do not have a ticket: take in the foyer, or book a guided tour to explore its history and rooms such as the Butterfly Room and Pioneer Room. Performances range from concerts and theatre to film screenings.
A theatre built as a palace
The State Theatre opened in 1929, when it was conceived as a grand entertainment venue. Its design brings together Gothic elements on the exterior and a more ornate interior, with neoclassical and baroque influences. The result is a building whose decoration is part of the visit, whether you are there for a concert, a play or a film.
The theatre was designed by Henry Eli White and is heritage-listed. Its history is closely tied to cinema as well as live performance. It screened films during the years when movie palaces were a major part of public entertainment, and it continues to host film screenings alongside concerts and stage shows.
What to look for inside
The foyer’s rich red and gold palette, carved decoration and cast-plaster figures set the tone before you reach the auditorium. Grand staircases rise from the entrance towards the galleries. Inside, look for the vaulted ceiling, mosaic floors, marble columns, statues and brass and bronze doors. The auditorium’s chandeliers are among its most distinctive details, and the building also holds artworks by Australian artists including William Dobell.
There is plenty to notice before a performance begins, so give yourself time to look around rather than heading straight to your seat. The venue is spread across several levels, and stairs are part of its historic layout. If mobility or seating access matters for your visit, check the venue’s current accessibility information before booking.
Tours, films and live shows
The State Theatre hosts concerts, theatre productions and other live events. It also becomes a cinema venue during the Sydney Film Festival in June. The program changes, so check the theatre’s website for the event taking place during your visit and for ticket details.
A guided tour is another way to see the building. Tours cover its architecture, artwork and history, and can include rooms such as the Butterfly Room and Pioneer Room, which are not normally open to the public. Book ahead if you want to join one. If you have a show ticket, arrive with enough time to take in the foyer and staircases before it starts.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is the State Theatre in Sydney?
It is at 49 Market Street in Sydney’s central business district.
When was the State Theatre built?
The theatre opened in 1929 and was designed by Henry Eli White.
What can you see on a State Theatre tour?
Guided tours cover the theatre’s history, architecture and artworks. They can also include rooms such as the Butterfly Room and Pioneer Room.
Does the State Theatre host film screenings?
Yes. It hosts the Sydney Film Festival in June, as well as live performances at other times.
