Riverside Theatre Redevelopment: Transforming Parramatta
Western Sydney is set for a cultural renaissance with the unveiling of the Riverside Theatre Redevelopment, promising a 1,500-capacity Broadway-style lyric theatre. This ambitious project, part of the NSW Government’s commitment to revamp Parramatta’s cultural precinct, will receive $40 million from the Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants program. The transformation of the Riverside Theatres includes not only the expansive new lyric theatre but also a refurbished 760-seat playhouse, a new 424-seat black-box drama theatre, and an 88-seat digital studio and cinema.
Following an international design competition, COX Architecture, alongside 3XN Architects, Aileen Sage, Turf Design Studio, and Bangawarra, was chosen for its innovative and imaginative approach. The redevelopment will create a state-of-the-art venue, with fully flexible production rehearsal spaces, advanced technical specifications, a Riverfront Café, and enhanced public spaces, aiming for a 5-Star Green Star sustainability rating.
The $188 million project, jointly funded with the City of Parramatta Council contributing $148 million, promises significant improvements to the surrounding public domain, fostering better connectivity between the river and Prince Alfred Square. This redevelopment is a part of 191 transformational projects under the $2 billion Western Sydney Infrastructure Grants Program.
Construction is slated to begin in late 2025, with the new facilities expected to open in 2028. This project is part of a broader initiative to enhance Parramatta’s cultural and community infrastructure, including the Indigenous Centre of Excellence, Carter Street Precinct Community Centre, and the Don Moore Multi-Purpose Community Hub.
Minister for the Arts John Graham highlighted the historical importance of Riverside Theatres and its future role in Western Sydney’s cultural and economic landscape. Member for Parramatta Donna Davis emphasized the project’s significance for local creatives and audiences, while City of Parramatta Lord Mayor, Cr Pierre Esber, lauded the potential to attract major national and international productions.
For more information, visit the NSW Government website.
