New Glasshouse Theatre ready to welcome audiences at QPAC

Queensland's newest cultural landmark, the Glasshouse Theatre at Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC), is complete, with final testing and staff training now underway ahead of its public opening next month.

The striking new theatre features contemporary architecture and cutting-edge performance technology designed to deliver an exceptional audience experience. Queenslanders will be able to explore the venue first-hand at a free Community Day on Saturday, 7 March 2026.

The Crisafulli Government says the Glasshouse Theatre is a centrepiece of its plan to strengthen Queensland's creative industries and enhance the State's visitor economy as Brisbane prepares for the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The multi-million-dollar transformation of QPAC reinforces Queensland's reputation as a leading cultural tourism destination and forms a key pillar of the Government's new 10-year arts and culture strategy, Queensland's Time to Shine.

Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek said the Glasshouse Theatre would elevate QPAC to become Australia's largest performing arts venue under one roof.

"Glasshouse Theatre is a world-class venue that will transform how audiences experience live performance," Minister Langbroek said.
"From its stunning architecture and advanced technical capabilities to its breathtaking façade, this theatre is a game-changer for Queensland."

The 1,500-seat auditorium features sustainable Queensland ironbark timber, delivering superior acoustics and excellent sightlines across two levels.

"Every seat is a winner," Minister Langbroek said. "This theatre belongs to Queenslanders, and our Government is proud to be delivering Queensland's Time to Shine to support a thriving creative sector across the State."

He said the Government's $420.7 million arts portfolio investment included a cultural legacy plan, an arts education and creative careers roadmap, and increased support for regional arts and culture.

Minister for Housing and Public Works Sam O'Connor said the Department of Housing and Public Works oversaw delivery of the project in partnership with contractor Lendlease.

"More than 2,400 workers were inducted on site, including 180 apprentices and trainees, who collectively completed more than one million work hours," Minister O'Connor said.
"This iconic addition to the South Bank precinct is something Queenslanders will enjoy for generations."

QPAC Chief Executive Rachel Healy described the opening as a landmark moment for Queensland's arts community.

"The Glasshouse Theatre is a gift to Queenslanders and our cultural sector, building on QPAC's proud 40-year legacy," Ms Healy said.
"This new 1,500-seat venue allows us to attract world-class performers and Australian exclusives, including global music icon Sting in The Last Ship."

She said demand for the free Community Day was expected to be strong, with guided tours likely to book out quickly.

"Our doors will be open all day on 7 March for Queenslanders to explore the theatre, enjoy pop-up performances and experience the light-filled foyers," Ms Healy said.
"I encourage everyone to come and discover Queensland's newest cultural superstar."

Glasshouse Theatre will officially open to ticket-holding audiences from late March 2026, with an opening program featuring Queensland Ballet's Messa da Requiem with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra, the Australian-exclusive production of The Last Ship, and the world premiere of The Drover's Wife - The Opera, based on the work of Queensland artist Leah Purcell AM.

The $184 million Glasshouse Theatre was funded through $159 million from the Queensland Government and $25 million from QPAC.