Built in 1921 as the Victory Theatre (cinema), the National Theatre was converted into a live performance venue in 1972-74. It functions today as a community arts centre for over 80 groups including musical comedy performances, dance companies, multi-cultural events and school groups. Annual Festivals are held by groups as diverse as the Latvian Community, major musicals and dance events. Commercial events recently have included Bell Shakespeare, Henry Rollins, Rufus Wainwright and Lily Tomlin. As the events vary it is wise to check the box office.

Beneath the theatre in what was the original theatre stalls seating are Australia's oldest performing arts schools. The National Theatre Ballet School was begun in 1939, just a few years after the Drama School in 1936. The Company itself celebrated its 75th birthday in December 2010. The schools offer training for all ages in both unaccredited "hobby" courses as well as Diploma and Advanced Diplomas of Arts. The Ballet School also accepts international students in its full-time courses. Please check online for the drama and ballet school contact details.

Historically the conversion saved the bulk of the auditorium and all of the main foyers which are now protected by heritage controls, as is the exterior. The existing building is substantially the 1928 renovation undertaken by then owner Frank Thring Senior, father of the actor. Frank Thring Senior was very involved in both the film making and film distribution businesses in early Australia so the site is important for that reason.

The venue itself is open to hire as well as the home of many performances by the schools themselves.

Content: National Theatre

Payment methods accepted

Cancellation and booking policy

No refunds or exchanges on ticket sales after purchase except as required by law. In the event of a cancellation of the performance, a full refund will be provided.

Local directions

Immediately behind the Acland Street tourist precinct and two blocks from Luna Park, Palais Theatre and the Saint Kilda Pier. You can reach the National Theatre easily by Light Rail (96 down Bourke Street). By car down Carlisle Street off the Nepean Highway or down Barkly Street after Saint Kilda Junction if coming from the city.

Facilities

Activities

Opening hours

The National Theatre is open one hour prior to an advertised performance. Schools operate slightly different hours. Call Drama or Ballet to confirm.

Monday to Saturday
8:30am -7:30pm
Acting and Dance Schools are open

Monday to Friday
9:00am -5:00pm
Box Office open times.

Memberships

• National Trust

Disabled access

Lifts and stair crawler for mobility impaired.Hearing amplification loop for hearing impaired.Toilet facility with shower and access.

Additional business information

National Theatre Ballet School
From DancePlay for the very young through to senior classes and Adult Beginners in Ballet the School offers a wide range of dance training. Jazz, tap and contemporary, as well as the full-time Advanced Diploma of Arts (Classical Dance) over 3 years. The School offers a Certificate 4 and Advanced Diploma in Classical Dance as well.

National Theatre Drama School
Offers three types of training. The part-time school (up to age 17 from DramaPlay for the very young); the 18+ classes and a Three Year Advanced Diploma of Arts (Acting). A full-time Certificate 3 in Theatre Practice is offered as well.

The National Theatre
A wide variety of professional, community and amateur events. Please call the box office for details as many of the performances are not advertised in the daily press or sold through the main ticketing agencies. The venue is also available for hire at very reasonable rates. Contact the theatre manager for more information.