State Theatre Centre of Western Australia

174–176 William Street, Perth WA 6000

Quick answer

The State Theatre Centre of Western Australia is Perth's contemporary flagship drama venue in Northbridge, housing the Heath Ledger Theatre and Studio Underground and home to Black Swan State Theatre Company.

  • Theatre
  • Festivals
  • Dance
  • Cabaret

Upcoming

What's on at this venue

5–8 Aug 2026

Sydney Dance Company: Engine

Sydney Dance Company returns to Perth with Engine, a bold new work.

13–15 Aug 2026

Gutsy Girls Adventure Film Tour

A celebration of women in adventure filmmaking, on tour at the State Theatre Centre.

14–15 Aug 2026

Top Dog Film Festival

A curated evening of the world's best short films celebrating dogs and their humans.

17 Aug 2026

JSR Music Gala Night

A family-friendly music gala at the State Theatre Centre.

21 Aug 2026

Music of the Night: A Tribute to Andrew Lloyd Webber

A concert celebration of the songbook of Andrew Lloyd Webber.

28 Aug 2026

Āvartan: Moments in Rhythm

A cultural dance and rhythm showcase presented at the State Theatre Centre.

29 Aug – 20 Sep 2026

Day (After Day) in the Life of the Useless

A new Black Swan State Theatre Company production at the Heath Ledger Theatre.

11–12 Sep 2026

Kate Miller-Heidke: The Kiss & The Abyss

Kate Miller-Heidke performs songs from The Kiss & The Abyss.

23 Oct – 8 Nov 2026

Jacky

Black Swan State Theatre Company presents Jacky.

24 Oct 2026

Club Burlesque Gala

A glittering gala evening of burlesque and cabaret.

14 Nov 2026

Des Bishop: Australia Tour

Irish-American comedian Des Bishop performs live in Perth.

Full What’s On calendar

Our reviews

Reviewed at State Theatre Centre

History

About the venue

Opened in 2011 on William Street, the State Theatre Centre gave Perth a purpose-built modern home for drama after decades of the city's plays being staged in adapted spaces.

Its main auditorium is named for Perth-born actor Heath Ledger.

The Centre is the resident home of Black Swan State Theatre Company and a major Perth Festival and Fringe World venue.

Heath Ledger Theatre

approx. 575 seats

Main proscenium auditorium

Studio Underground

approx. 200 seats

Flexible black-box space for new and independent work

The Courtyard

Outdoor performance and event space

Before you go

Planning your night

Seating & sightlines

  • The Heath Ledger Theatre is steeply raked, so sightlines are strong from almost every seat.
  • Row D to H in the centre stalls is the sweet spot for balance of detail and full-stage view.
  • Studio Underground seating configuration changes per production — check the staging before choosing.

Accessibility

  • Fully accessible modern venue with lift access to all public levels.
  • Wheelchair spaces in both the Heath Ledger Theatre and Studio Underground.
  • Accessible toilets on multiple levels and an assistive hearing loop.
  • Audio described, Auslan interpreted and relaxed performances are programmed for selected seasons.

Parking

  • Roe Street and Cultural Centre car parks are the closest large options.
  • Northbridge street parking is metered and competitive on weekend nights.
  • Rideshare pick-up works best from William Street or Roe Street after the show.

Public transport

  • Perth Station and Perth Underground are a short walk south across the Horseshoe Bridge.
  • Yagan Square and the Perth Busport are both within walking distance.
  • Inside the Free Transit Zone — most CBD public transport to the venue is free.

Eat nearby

  • Northbridge's William Street and James Street strips have some of Perth's best pre-show eating, from Vietnamese to modern Australian.
  • The Perth Cultural Centre precinct is directly next door for a quieter drink before curtain.

Stay nearby

  • Northbridge and CBD hotels are within a 5–15 minute walk, with more options along Murray Street.

His & Hers audience tips

  • Northbridge gets busy on Friday and Saturday nights — allow extra time for parking.
  • The Courtyard bar is a good meeting point pre-show.
  • Studio Underground shows often sell out fast because of the small capacity.

Map

Find the venue

Frequently asked

State Theatre Centre FAQs

Where is the State Theatre Centre of WA?
It is at 174–176 William Street, Perth WA 6000, in Northbridge beside the Perth Cultural Centre.
What theatres are inside the State Theatre Centre?
The Heath Ledger Theatre (approximately 575 seats) and Studio Underground (approximately 200 seats), plus the outdoor Courtyard space.
Which company performs at the State Theatre Centre?
Black Swan State Theatre Company is the resident company, and the venue also hosts Perth Festival, Fringe World and independent seasons.

Related

Keep exploring

Recent seasons here

  • The Diary of Anne Frank17 Jul 2026
  • Eddie Izzard Performs Shakespeare's Hamlet27–29 Jul 2026
  • A Cracker Kransky Christmas in July30 Jul 2026
  • Joel Creasey: Jenny and Joel Creasey Live31 Jul – 1 Aug 2026