About
Located in Sydney's central business district, the Capitol Theatre is one of the city's most renowned performance spaces. With a with a rich history dating back to 1892, since its reopening in the 1990s, it has become the stage for some of the world's most important plays, with an extensive and varied program that ranges from world-class musicals like Grease or Chicago to ballet and concerts.
Useful information:
- Address: 13 Campbell St, Haymarket NSW 2000, Australia
- Telephone: +61 2 9320 5000
- Email: capitol@ctm.com.au
History
The Capitol Theatre has a long history, beginning in 1892 when the building started construction as the New Belmore Markets. In 1916, the building underwent its first important changes, becoming a hippodrome designed specifically for the Wirth Bros Circus. However, the circus did not last very long because of financial reasons, so it was converted into an atmospheric theatre, a type of movie palace that became very popular during the 20s because of its whimsical decor and the lavishness of the surroundings. This was the golden age of the theatre, but when the 1933 depression hit, the theatre started to lose more and more relevance, only showing second-rate movies.
The next decades were not any better, and as television became more and more popular, the Capitol’s future looked bleak, so by the end of the 70s the Sydney City Council considered demolition to allow a new lyric theatre to be built on the site
Fortunately, the demolition plans were scratched, and during the 90s the theatre underwent a complete restoration that took over two years and cost over $30m. A lot of changes were made, from expanding the orchestra pit with space for 110 musicians or creating new dressing rooms, as well as extending the fly-tower to become more than 30 metres high. Finally, in 1995, the theatre reopened with a production of Miss Saigon putting the Capitol back on the world stage. Since that moment, the Capitol has become Sidney's biggest theatre and one of the biggest cultural symbols of the city.
How To Get There
Located in the inner-city suburb of Haymarket, the Capitol Theatre is easily accessible via public transport, taxi or car with multiple parking options nearby.
- Bus: The nearest stops are Pitt St near Campbell St, Hay St near Pitt St and Pitt St near Eddy Avenue.
- Train: Capitol Theatre is a five-minute walk from Central Station.
- Light Rail: Haymarket and Capitol Square stations nearby.
- Car: Market City Car Park and the Capitol Square car park are less than 5 minutes away from the theatre
Box Office Hours
Capitol Theatre box office hours are as follows:
- Monday to Friday: from 9am to 5pm
- Saturdays and Sundays: from 11am (only on performance days)
Seating Plan
The main hall of the Capitol Theatre has a capacity of 2094 spectators. Its layout allows perfect visibility from all positions and its large stage is perfect not only for large productions, but also for concerts and circus shows. The seats are divided into two sections:
- Stalls: located on the ground floor.
- Dress circle: located one level above the stage.
The theatre also has a wide range of drinks and cocktails on offer, as well as snacks and treats in its five modern bars. During the interval, you can even enjoy their famous choc-tops from the comfort of your seat.
Access
If you have any questions do not hesitate to contact the Capitol Theatre access line on (02) 9320 5000 or email access@foundationtheatres.com.au.
Wheelchair and Transfer Seating
There is wheelchair and transfer seating available on the raised platform section for wheelchair bobookings in Stalls Row WWW.
You can also book an aisle seat in the Stalls and the team will assist you with transfers into your seat.
Limited Mobility
Please book your sets in the stalls if you have problems with stairs as most seats in the Dress Circle have many seats to climb.
Companion Card bookings
Companion Card holders can book by calling (02) 9320 5000 Monday to Friday and the Box Office team will try to assist you with that booking.
