FIRST LOOK: Thebarton Theatre’s $8M upgrade has been completed, ready to reopen this October

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One of Adelaide’s most historic and beloved live music and performance venues, Thebarton Theatre, also known as Thebby, is ready to welcome audiences back through its doors this October, and it will be looking brighter and better than ever after just receiving a major facelift.

Thanks to a $4 million contribution from the State Government, matched by the City of West Torrens, Stage One of Thebby’s highly anticipated refurbishment is now finished. The upgrades have been designed to honour the theatre’s rich history, while also setting the stage for a bold and exciting future as it approaches its 100th anniversary in 2028.

The refresh features a brand-new foyer and entrance that has been designed to improve accessibility while giving the theatre a fresh feel. The addition of an outdoor plaza now provides a welcoming space for audiences to come together pre and post-show. Plus, for the first time in its history, the theatre has installed a lift, making the venue more accessible than ever before. All of these additions have been done to give the venue a modern edge without compromising its historic charm.

“Thebarton Theatre has long been a cultural landmark for the arts and entertainment industry in South Australia, hosting countless iconic performances,” Mayor Michael Coxon said.

 “This grand venue has become a cherished part of the West Torrens community, largely due to its unique blend of historical charm and modern entertainment.

“I don’t believe there are too many people who could argue that Thebby isn’t well-known in the music and arts industry in Australia, possibly even further afield, as many international acts have performed here over the years. It’s even been host to squash tournaments and professional wrestling events, some of which you can still view online.”

Opened in 1928 as Thebarton Town Hall, Thebby was originally part-financed by cinema entrepreneur Dan Clifford, who struck a deal to screen films in the space. Back then, it was one of the state’s premier performance venues, which cost just over £37,400 to build and seated more than 2,000 patrons. Over the decades, it’s transformed from cinema, Thebarton Star and later the Odeon Star, into the iconic concert hall we know today, even earning a spot on the State Heritage Register in 1982.

Alongside world-class music acts, the theatre has hosted everything from squash tournaments to professional wrestling matches, adding to its reputation as one of South Australia’s most versatile venues. This versatility is what has made Thebby such an enduring favourite among audiences and performers alike over the years.

While completion of Stage One marks a significant milestone, the council is already looking ahead to further upgrades in the coming years. But for now, there is plenty to celebrate, with Thebby officially reopening to the public on October 1st.

On October 22nd, Marcia Hines and Casey Donovan will take to the stage for a very special concert to mark the occasion. To celebrate, the council is giving away 25 double passes to West Torrens residents, ratepayers, and local business owners.

So if you’ve ever danced, sung, or celebrated at Thebby, or are yet to experience the magic of one of Adelaide’s most iconic live venues, now’s the perfect time to rediscover it in all its glory!