As the second-largest performance space within the iconic Sydney Opera House, the Joan Sutherland Theatre is a cultural cornerstone. Formerly known as the Opera Theatre, this magnificent venue was renamed in honor of the legendary Australian soprano. With a capacity of 1507 seats and a dedicated orchestra pit for up to 70 musicians, it's the stage for world-class performances by the Australian Ballet and Opera Australia.
Venue Details
Address: Macquarie St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Opened: 1973
Seating Capacity: 1507
Stalls: 22 rows
Dress circle: 14 rows
Boxes: 12 rows
Loges: 14 rows
Now playing at the Joan Sutherland Theatre
Practical Information
Accessibility
Accessible seating: Wheelchair accessible seats are available in the Stalls at the end of Row C near Door 21 and Row E near Door 26. Courtesy wheelchairs can be rented approximately an hour before events commence near the Western Foyers entrance. A convenient passageway links the Southern and Northern Foyers on the western side for easy accessibility.
Accessible Washrooms: Accessible toilets can be found on level 3a, adjacent to the men's restroom within the Joan Sutherland Theatre.
Audio & visual: To enhance accessibility, hearing loops are installed throughout the venue, excluding Row A of the Stalls. Additionally, English surtitles are displayed above the stage for most opera performances.
Lifts: All lifts within the Joan Sutherland Theatre are wheelchair accessible, ensuring seamless movement throughout the venue.
Available Facilities
Escalator: If you do not wish to or aren't okay with using the stairs, there is an escalator near the Box Office to reach the Southern Foyer.
Lift: The newly installed elevator now connects all floors, providing easy access to the bars in the Northern Foyer.
Bar: The bars in the Northern Foyer and Southern Foyer are open approximately 90 minutes before the performance and during the interval.
Cloakroom: Guests with valid performance tickets can store their belongings in the cloakroom before the show.
Handy Tips
- Reaching Early: The Barbican Theatre box office and online portals are open to everyone for buying tickets. Book your tickets in advance to watch the shows.
- Accessibility: For visitors who need special assistance, it is advisable that they inform the venue in advance for a smooth experience.
- Dress Code: There is no official dress code for the people visiting the Barbican Theatre, except for the ones who perform on stage. Visitors are free to wear anything they feel comfortable in, however, they are mostly seen in smart casuals.
- Food and Beverage: There is an enticing range of bars, cafes, and restaurants within and around the Barbican Centre for you to grab a drink and a bite before and after the shows.
- Outside Food and Drinks Policy: Small amounts of sweets, snacks, and soft drinks are allowed during performances (no glass). Outside hot food, alcohol, and hot drinks are not allowed. Please be considerate of others and use provided bins for rubbish.
- Recording Policy: Capturing and recording, without the use of flash, is permitted only for specific parts of the shows. However, commercial sales of the recording are strictly prohibited.
Getting There
Bus: Several bus routes (396, 343, 304, 441, 333, 392N) connect to Circular Quay, the nearest stop to the Joan Sutherland Theatre.
Light rail: Take L2 or L3 from Wynyard Station to Circular Quay, then use the Courtesy Bus.
Train: T8 or T3 trains from Wynyard Station to Circular Quay, followed by the Courtesy Bus.
Ferry: Enjoy scenic views with Ferry 3 to Circular Quay, then walk or take the Courtesy Bus.
Restaurants near Joan Sutherland Theatre
1. Midden by Mark Olive: Midden by Mark Olive offers stunning harbour views and a unique dining experience showcasing native Australian ingredients. Enjoy dishes featuring bush honey, wattle seed, and more. Don't miss the pre-theatre menu with a range of delicious options.
2. Opera Bar: Opera Bar offers stunning harbour views and a relaxed atmosphere. Enjoy delicious snacks, seafood, and pizza before or after your show.
3. House Canteen: House Canteen offers diverse Asian cuisine, from grab-and-go to dine-in options, just a short walk from the theatre. Enjoy spring rolls, curries, sushi, and more.
Frequently asked questions about Joan Sutherland Theatre
