The Queensland Government has unveiled the popularly chosen name for the State’s newest theatre in the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC).
The new name – the Glasshouse Theatre – was chosen following a month-long consultation process that gathered more than 5000 responses.
Members of the public were invited to choose from four options Glasshouse Theatre, Lantern Theatre, Watershed Theatre and Russell Street Theatre, or suggest an alternative. Around 900 suggestions were received.
The Glasshouse Theatre will become QPAC’s fifth venue and will join the Playhouse, Lyric, Concert Hall and Cremorne Theatre.
The construction of the $184 million theatre, funded with Queensland Government investment of $159 million and $25 million from QPAC, is an architectural and engineering feat with seamless integration into the heritage-listed QPAC.
The theatre will have the capacity to accommodate the highest technical and artistic demands of the latest touring blockbuster productions.
The facility is on track to be completed by the end of the year, before audiences are welcomed in 2026.
Minister for the Arts, John-Paul Langbroek said the vote gathered significant interest and Glasshouse Theatre was the clear frontrunner, recognising the stunning glass façade.
“When the Glasshouse Theatre opens next year, it will make QPAC the largest performing arts centre in Australia under one roof,” Minister Langbroek said.
“This will enable even more locals and visitors to the State to experience world premieres, national exclusives and outstanding work from the State’s leading arts companies.”
QPAC Chief Executive, Rachel Healy said the announcement of the new theatre’s name signalled a landmark step in the venue’s journey.
“The naming of the Glasshouse Theatre coincides with the next phase in the venue’s construction, arguably the most exciting part of the project, which is the fit-out of all the details that distinguish it as a theatre,” Ms Healy said.
“We are delighted to see dressing rooms being fitted out, the stage all set, orchestra pit installed, bars and foyers coming together and 1500 seats in place.
“We’ll soon be announcing the performances that will comprise the opening season and also our plan to host an ‘open house’ that will allow our community to come through and help us test it out before we officially open.
“QPAC belongs to all Queenslanders, so it is very fitting that our country’s newest theatre has a name chosen by our community.”
