From international musicals to local productions, Adelaide has a great variety of live shows to offer.
Be sure to experience the best of the performing arts in SA at these theatres in Adelaide.
Opening image: Adelaide Fringe Festival. Image: South Australian Tourism Commission.
Adelaide Festival Centre
Adelaide Festival Centre is known as the heart of the arts in South Australia and one of Asia Pacific’s leading cultural centres. Welcoming over a million people each year, Adelaide Festival Centre was established in 1973 and has grown to present a diverse array of dance, theatre, music, exhibitions, and festivals over the years. It is also home to Festival Theatre, Dunstan Playhouse, and Space Theatre. This stunning theatre not only has a grand reputation as the principal performing arts centre in SA, but has also delivered some of the world’s biggest touring performance groups and musicals to the people of SA.
Her Majesty’s Theatre
Originally known as the New Tivoli Theatre since its opening in 1928, Her Majesty’s Theatre has been newly renovated and reopened in 2020 to become one of Adelaide’s most beloved theatres. Once considered one of the finest theatres in Australia, the theatre’s new design combines heritage with modern architecture as well as state of the art technology to provide a dazzling, smooth experience to remember.
Queen’s Theatre
Sink into the history of Australia by visiting Queen’s Theatre, the oldest still-surviving theatre in mainland Australia since 1841 when it was developed in the colonial era. Half the original above ground structure and much of the below ground structure still remains. Nestled between skyscrapers, Queen’s Theatre is a callback to the character of older times with its nostalgic heritage architecture. It still charms theatre goers today with its cabaret and music events. Don’t miss out on catching a show at this remarkable historic location!
Star Theatres
This local theatre has been entertaining Adelaide for decades. Star Theatres has a beautiful vintage look and is touted as the best intermediate-sized live theatre venue in Adelaide. This spot has twin theatres, with a versatile theatre that works for classic shows and cabaret, and a second space great for stage plays, comedy, and dance. Star Theatres puts on some fantastic productions with local groups and performers to immerse you in an intimate setting, bound to have an enchanting time.
Marion Cultural Centre
Marion Cultural Centre holds the Domain Theatre as well as a library, gallery, and cafe. This contemporary performance space boasts a venue with beautiful modern architecture just a short drive away from the SA coastline. Its Domain Theatre serves as a stage for a close-up experience with performers, with versatile seating suitable for a variety of performance options including theatre, cabaret, comedy, and dance.
Holden Street Theatres
Located in the Adelaide suburb of Hindmarsh, Holden Street Theatres has award winning programs and is known as the “Home of Theatre” with its leading role in fringe within Adelaide. It has a variety of performance spaces yet a charming and cosy feel for each, as well as some incredible talent to watch out for. Holden Street Theatres also works behind the scenes as a creative hub to nurture local artists and foster the creative arts scene in the community.
Thebarton Theatre
Thebarton Theatre can be found in the suburbs of Adelaide and has long been one of Adelaide’s most beloved entertainment venues. With its elaborate seating and innovative lighting technology, Thebarton Theatre holds up to 2,000 people and provides an atmosphere like no other. Lovingly dubbed as the “Thebby” by locals, this theatre is sure to fulfil your wishes of a night of energy and fun with its exciting shows.
Entertained yet? Check out the best theatres for live shows in Melbourne.
For even more theatres, bookstores, and museums, check out our complete guide to cultural experiences in Australia.
Travel to Adelaide
Rex flies to Sydney. Book your flights here and check out the route map below for more inspo.
