A concept illustration of the planned Lyric Theatre fronting Vernon Circle. Multiplex will submit a construction proposal by the end of the year. Images: ACT Government.
Global construction company Multiplex has won a fourth ACT Government contract for a major project in its infrastructure pipeline, the new 2000-seat Lyric Theatre to be constructed next to the Canberra Theatre Centre in the city.
Multiplex’s appointment as early delivery partner was made without fanfare after a competitive tender process.
The lyric theatre project procurement has two phases – Early Contractor Involvement and Design and Construct.
Under this arrangement, Multiplex is not guaranteed to build the new theatre but will be well positioned to get the final nod.
Multiplex delivered the University of Canberra Hospital and new Critical Services Building at Canberra Hospital. It was also named early delivery partner for the Northside Hospital project under the same procurement arrangement as the theatre.
The company has forged a strong relationship with government and boasts a record of delivering specialist projects across Australia.
An ACT Government spokesperson said over the coming months Infrastructure Canberra would partner with Multiplex to progress more detailed planning for the theatre including project approvals, pricing and the construction program.
“It will also further develop the theatre design to ensure it meets the needs of theatre users, patrons, stakeholders and the Territory,” the spokesperson said.
Another conceptual view of the Lyric Theatre project.
Multiplex will submit a construction proposal to government by the end of 2025 for consideration.
The contract is worth $16.6 million and includes a program of early works including geotechnical testing and the diversion of services.
Multiplex will work with the project’s design partner consortium – led by Architectus, Henning Larsen, and international theatre designer Arup – which developed the concept into a reference design at the preliminary sketch plan level after being appointed in May 2023.
The new lyric theatre’s bigger stage will cater for large-scale performances including ballet, opera and musicals. It is expected major productions previously passing on Canberra will now come to the national capital.
The project will include the construction of a secure loading dock on Theatre Lane covered by a new land bridge with an active frontage on Vernon Circle, as well as modern back-of-house facilities and connections with existing venues.
Plans for the next stage of the Canberra Theatre redevelopment project include refurbishment of the existing Canberra Theatre and Playhouse, the construction of a new link space between the two and from Civic Square to City Hill, and a new 300-seat Studio Theatre.
