State Theatre
The State Theatre is both a great entertainment venue and an architectural treasure
Sydney's stunning and elaborate State Theatre has been the home to great entertainment since it's opening in 1929. This beautiful theatre is recognized by the Australian National Trust as a building of great historical and architectural significance. The theatre's design is a blend of Art Deco design with Gothic and Italian influences.
The State Theatre first opend with seating for 2775 patrons. Today it's impressive auditorium has seating for 2000 guests. The theatre still has the original Wurlitzer Organ that accompanied the early silent movies. It also features a huge hand-cut crystal chandelier that is the 2nd largest in the world. While beginning with films, the theatre has hosted a combination of films and live events over the years. In the 1990s it returned to hosting primarily live theatre although it also hosts the two week Sydney Film Festival each year in June.
If you don't get an opportunity to take in a show at this spectacular venue you can still go on a 2 hour guided tour which will also show you a lot of interesting "behind the scenes" stuff. Tours of the State Theatre are held every Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday. There is an admission charge for these tours.
Nearby attractions: Pitt Street Mall, Sydney Tower and the Queen Victoria Building.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: YesAddress: 49 Market St, Sydney NSW 2000, Australia
Phone: (02) 9373 6655
Official Website: State Theatre
State Theatre Reviews
Rated out of 5
This is a gorgeous theatre. Yes, the stage is small and it’s obvious this factor hampers the dancers, but from an audience perspective it is one of my favourites. We were in the stalls. The view was great. The seats large and comfortable with plenty of leg space (complete opposite of the Lyric) and the entire space was a delight to look at. Love it.
Gregory Long - a month ago
Beautiful energy
My husband and I went to see the Commodores at the Sydney State Theatre and had the best time. The line up of songs did not disappoint and the energy and good humour was constant throughout the show. William King (original member), Brent Carter and Cody and Colin Orange with their back up musicians were so together. Cody and Colin brought the joy, talent and warmth of Walter Clyde Orange and so much more! God bless the Commodores past and awesome present members, especially Cody and Colin so nice and friendly chatting and taking selfies after the show. So looking forward to seeing more of them:)
The State Theatre was a good size, had great seats and wide aisles. Some might say dated but I say nostalgic and the ushers were accommodating and smiling … I mean they look happy!
Gina Casal - a month ago
I loved this theater, I went for the Nutcracker ballet. The dance crew and decor were good. There's no place for an orchestra, so the music comes from a record (good quality even if it can't beat a live orchestra playing for a ballet). It was a family friendly ballet in the afternoon, so the whole theater smelled of popcorn. More relaxed ambiance than at the Sydney Opera. I loved the iconic old vibe of the building, it reminded me of Orpheum theater in Cremorne. Good experience!
Linihila Lini - 2 weeks ago
Wonderful experience seeing Cliff Richard's 'You can't stop me now.' As a 85 year old gentleman ,he was fantastic, energetic and still has the best voice ever. Most beautiful State Theatre, in Sydney.
Janet Hubbard - a month ago
So first let me say the way to do this is catch the train to Town Hall and walk up, enjoy a Happy Hour drink next door with a snack which are both extraordinary then head in for your show.
Personally I didn’t know what to expect. Stairs not a lift was a bit of an issue for me and the cues for the loos were so long they opened up the mens room. But the theatre itself and seating were really lovely.
Honestly though they sounded like they had turned the mics up to full pitch at somd points it sounded like they were screaming not singing.
I enjoyed it and laughed along but for $85 not sure I would rush back or maybe that’s just my aching Menopause joints 😂😂😂
Jayne Nancarrow - a week ago
Directions
| Train Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Light Rail- L1 | Capitol Square | 14 minutes |
| T2, T3, or T8 | St. James | 3 minutes |
| L2, T1, T2, T3 or T4 | Town Hall | 5 minutes |
How to get to State Theatre by Train
By Light Rail L1: Exit at Capitol Square and walk north on George Street then right (east) on Market Street.
By Train or Light Rail L2: Exit St. James Station onto Elizabeth Street and cross over and continue west on Market Street (3 minutes) or exit at Town Hall Station and go north on George Street then right (east) on Market Street (5 minutes).
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Accommodations near State Theatre:
Photo Gallery
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Grand foyer of the State Theatre -
Magnificent Atrium inside the State Theatre
