Lyric Theatre opened in 1985 as part of the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) complex in Brisbane. It's the largest performance space in QPAC, boasting a capacity of approximately 2,000 seats. The spacious layout features comfortable continental seating with options for wheelchair users and those with mobility difficulties. Whether you're seated in the stalls or one of the two balcony levels, you'll have a clear view of the stage. Previous productions at Lyric Theatre include Singin' in the Rain, Mary Poppins, and more.
About Lyric Theatre, QPAC
The Lyric Theatre, QPAC, can accommodate around 2,000 guests spread across three main sections: the Stalls, Balcony 1, and Balcony 2. The venue has a typical horseshoe shape, offering clear views of the stage from all sections. That said, some seats offer better views than others.
Stalls
- The Stalls, the largest section of the theatre has a cross-over section after row N to ensure seamless access to seats located toward the end.
- Wheelchair-accessible seats are available in rows N and W in the Stalls.
Balcony 1
- Seats in Balcony 1 from rows A to J angle towards the stage, which may result in less optimal views.
- Wheelchair-accessible seats are available in row Q.
Balcony 2
- Rows A to I in Balcony 2 taper toward the stage from both sides at an angle, so you may not get the best views from here.
- Rows J, K, and L in Balcony 2 since they provide unobstructed views of the stage.
Lyric Theatre, QPAC Seating Plan >
The Lyric Theatre was one of the first three venues constructed inside the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in 1985. The Duke of Kent inaugurated the Lyric Theatre, QPAC. Since then, it has become Brisbane’s main venue for ballet, opera, and musicals. The Pirates of Penzance was Lyric Theatre’s first-ever production, featuring popular names, including Simon Gallagher and Jon English.
- Australian architect Robin Gibson designed and created the Lyric Theatre QPAC, along with two other venues inside QPAC: the Concert Hall and the Cremorne Theatre.
- The proscenium theatre, characterized by its horseshoe shape, has a warm and inviting vibe due to the earthy and wooden interiors,
- The two tapering overhanging balconies on either side of the Stalls, which extend backwards gradually, add depth, creating a perfect theatrical experience.
- Beauty and the Beast the Musical
- TINA – The Tina Turner Musical
- WICKED
- The Pirates of Penzance
- Strictly Gershwin
- Kenneth MacMillan’s Manon
Know before you go
- By bus: Hop on buses 60, 61, 66, 100, 105, 107, 110, 111, and 130 to the Cultural Centre bus stop around 150 meters from the Lyric Theatre. Alternatively, you can get down at the Grey St at South Brisbane bus stop by bus 86.
- By train: Getting to the Lyric Theatre QPAC by train is convenient thanks to its proximity to the South Brisbane train station, which is a two-minute walk from the venue. Trains with codes BDBR, BDVL, FGBN, SHBR, and SHCL stop at the South Brisbane train station.
- By car: Driving to the Lyric Theatre QPAC is hassle-free thanks to convenient parking options, including the Performing Arts Car Park (P1). Visitors can also park their vehicles at other parking options, like the South Bank Parklands Car Park and the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre Parking, both located a stone’s throw from the theatre.
- By taxi: Guests arriving by taxi can get down at any of the passenger drop-off and loading zones on either side of Grey St. That said, we recommend the southbound drop-off zone if you are getting to the venue by taxi.
- Recommended mode of transport: Driving to the Lyric Theatre QPAC is the best and the fastest way to get there, especially if you are short on time. The best way to get to the venue via public transport is by bus since it is pocket-friendly.
- Parking: Guests can park at different parking options close to the Lyric Theatre, including the Performing Arts Car Park (P1) and three undercover car parks at the Cultural Centre.
- Cloakroom: Guests must store large backpacks, bags, strollers, umbrellas, etc., in the cloakroom, which is on Level M.
- Dining: The theatre bar opens around 90 minutes before the performances start. Guests can consume drinks while seated inside the theatre or in the foyer.
- Washrooms: Washrooms are conveniently located on Levels TM, 4, and M. A Baby changing facility is available in the washrooms on Level TM.
- Lifts: Three lifts connect the ground floor to the theatre’s foyers.
- Accessibility booking: Guests can make special requests depending on their seating requirements by choosing the accessibility booking option.
- Audio description: Audio description service is available for guests with visual impairments.
- Parking: There are 16 dedicated parking spaces for disabled guests at the Cultural Centre’s car park 1 (P1).
- Accessible seating: Seats 10-13, 25-28, and 40-43 in row N and 6-8 and 44-46 in row W in the Stalls are reserved for guests with disabilities. Accessible seating is also available in seats 2, 5, 6, 7, 43, 44, 45, and 48 in row Q in Balcony 1.
- Accessible washrooms: Accessible washrooms are available in the Mezzanine level, Levels 2 and 4, and Lower Minstrel.
- Hearing assistance: ListenRF and Listentech assistive systems can be collected from the cloakroom before the performance.
- Show up early: Arrive 60 to 90 minutes before the performance to ensure you have enough time to find your seats, explore the amenities, and settle in.
- Baggage: Avoid carrying large bags and backpacks, strollers, and umbrellas since you cannot carry these items inside the theatre. That said, you can secure these items in a cloakroom.
- Dress code: Lyric Theatre at the QPAC has no formal dress code. However, smart casual is a great choice for the venue and experience.
- Accessible seating: Contact the theatre’s staff in advance to book accessible seats and cater to your special requests and arrangements.
- Russell Street Wine Bar: Enjoy breathtaking views of the South Bank and The Wheel of Brisbane as you dig into a cheese plate or a charcuterie board while sipping your favourite wine. The enchanting interiors, coupled with the location make it a great pitstop before and after your visit to the Lyric Theatre, QPAC.
Directions to Russel Street Wine Bar
- Lyrebird: Lyrebird is an Italian restaurant with an Australian twist inside QPAC. It serves delicious dishes made from local ingredients. Savour signature pasta and an assortment of grilled meat, including duck, barramundi, and more, while seated alongside the Cascade Court.
Directions to Lyrebird
- Bistro by QPAC: Bistro by QPAC is the place to be if you enjoy Asian street food. Enjoy a dazzling array of Asian-inspired dishes like crispy Korean fried chicken, spring rolls, and Thai curry alongside the Brisbane River. Head to the Bistro by QPAC to soak in the beautiful surroundings of the QPAC.
Frequently asked questions about Lyric Theatre, QPAC
The Lyric Theatre, QPAC, is around 39 years old and home to some of Queensland’s top ballets, operas, and musicals.
Lyric Theatre at the QPAC was built in 1985 by Australian architect Robin Gibson.
The address of Lyric Theatre, QPAC, is Melbourne St, South Brisbane, QLD 4101, Australia.
Lyric Theatre, QPAC, has a seating capacity of 2,000.
No, there is no strict dress code for Lyric Theatre, QPAC. However, smart casual is a perfect choice for a comfortable and enjoyable visit to the theatre.
