Back in June 2024, a 25-year plan for Parramatta was revealed, with the aim of turning the Western Sydney capital into a world-class cultural and creative hub, and a “job engine”. The plans include huge new housing developments and a heap of industry centres, with the aim of creating 150,000 additional jobs between now and 2050. At the heart of the suburb’s creative renaissance is the redevelopment of Riverside Theatres, and the plans for the project have just been revealed.
On track to become a world-class performing arts centre, the venue's proposed redevelopment includes a 1,500-seat Broadway-style theatre, a refurbished 700-seat Riverside Playhouse theatre, an all-new 325-seat black-box drama theatre, a state-of-the-art 110-seat digital studio, a big-screen cinema, and upgraded public spaces. According to the City of Parramatta, the new arts hub will welcome more than 400,000 visitors a year, and the community is now invited to have their say on the plans.
Located across the river from the Powerhouse Parramatta, the redeveloped Riverside Theatre has been described by City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Clr Martin Zaiter as a pivotal part of the City’s plans to become an epicentre of culture and creativity.
“This critical piece of infrastructure will give the people of Western Sydney the front seat tickets they deserve to world-class shows and productions,” Cr Zaiter explained.
In line with the suburb-wide redevelopment, including the establishment of a leafy new “grand boulevard” due to open in the heart of Parramatta next year, the design has sustainability at its heart: combining natural features and a style that’s sympathetic to the location.
“The iconic design respects Parramatta’s rich cultural heritage, thoughtfully integrating contemporary architecture with elements that honour the area’s historical significance, creating a harmonious blend of past and present,” Riverside Theatres Director Craig McMaster has said.
Keen to check it out? You can learn more about the plans for the reimagined Riverside Theatres and have your say over here.
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