The National Theatre in St Kilda, home to the renowned Drama and Ballet Schools, is undergoing significant restoration to restore the iconic building to its original grandeur.
Celebrating its 50th year in St Kilda, the heritage-listed venue is embarking on a series of capital works that will help preserve its historical features and improve public safety.
CEO Sarah Hunt emphasised the importance of the National Theatre’s role in St Kilda’s arts scene, highlighting its transformation from a cinema in 1921 to a vibrant hub for performing arts education. Hunt noted that the renovation is made possible through a combination of state and local government funding, as well as philanthropic contributions, stating, “We are now able to begin a well-deserved renovation of this much-loved landmark performing arts institution.”
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One of the key projects currently underway is the Awning Conservation Project, which aims to restore the building’s façade while addressing issues related to structural integrity and public safety. The project, valued at $833,000, is funded by the Victorian government, philanthropic donors, and the City of Port Phillip. The restoration of the awning follows previous works in 2023 that included repairs to the theatre foyer ceilings and updates to the Drama and Ballet Schools’ foyers.
The Minister for Creative Industries, Colin Brooks, voiced the Victorian government’s support for the project, highlighting the theatre’s role as a “creative icon” for the community. He added, “We’re proud to back this project, which will enhance the building’s façade and ensure that this heritage gem is as vibrant and inspiring on the outside as the performances, events, and classes that take place inside.”
Restoration efforts will also include the replacement of unsympathetic modern materials with heritage-appropriate alternatives, ensuring the preservation of the building’s original design. These efforts will also address water damage, masonry issues, and bring the building up to current safety standards. Work on the Carlisle Street façade has commenced, with the focus shifting to Barkly Street later this month, and an expected completion date in December.
In addition to the exterior works, interior renovations will also take place, including the refurbishment of the mezzanine-level women’s restrooms, funded by the Rainbow Relief Fund. Further upgrades to public restrooms and theatre seating are planned for the near future.
Chair of The National’s Board, Govind Pillai, expressed gratitude to the project’s funding partners, noting that the continued support of state and local governments, private donors, and philanthropic organisations is essential for the theatre’s operation and its commitment to the arts community. “The generous investment…is essential for our ongoing operations as well as the restoration and renewal of this beautiful heritage-listed venue,” Pillai said.
The National Theatre, founded in 1935 by Australian performing arts pioneer Gertrude Johnson, has become a cultural mainstay in Melbourne’s Bayside. In 2023 alone, it welcomed 130,000 visitors for 195 live performances and 40 weeks of performing arts training.
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