State Theatre Centre of Western Australia 🇦🇺

Located within the vibrant Perth Cultural Centre in Perth, Western Australia, the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia is a premier destination for performing arts. Designed by Kerry Hill Architects following an international competition and officially opened in 2011, this modern theatre complex features three distinct performance areas designed to give you an unforgettable cultural experience. The star feature of the complex is the 575-seat Heath Ledger Theatre, a traditional proscenium theatre named in honour of the Perth-born, Academy Award-winning actor.

Inside this main auditorium, you will see curved, elevated seating arrangements ensuring an unobstructed view of the stage from every single seat, alongside striking timber-paneled walls and timber acoustic baffles hanging below the ceiling to enhance sound quality. Beyond the main auditorium, the centre houses the flexible 234-seat Studio Underground black box theatre and the versatile outdoor Courtyard venue. As you enter, you will make your way to the first-floor timber-paneled foyer via a main staircase framed by spectacular decorative elements overhead.

Whether you are taking in a performance or admiring its thoughtful architecture, it offers a wonderful glimpse into Perth's local art scene.

What to see at State Theatre Centre of Western Australia

• Main 575-seat Heath Ledger Theatre with proscenium design and adaptable orchestra pit
• Unobstructed stage views from every seat due to curved, elevated row design
• 234-seat Studio Underground black box theatre space
• Outdoor Courtyard area capable of seating up to 200 people
• Timber-paneled main foyer featuring spectacular hanging decorative elements

Visiting tips

Look up as you climb the main entrance staircase to admire the spectacular decorative elements hanging overhead.

How long: 1-3 hours · Best time: Evening

How to get there & what’s nearby

State Theatre Centre of Western Australia is easy to reach on Perth’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Art Gallery of Western Australia and Western Australian Museum. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Perth travel guide.