Perfect ten for world-class theatre

Ulumbarra Theatre celebrates 10 years of cultural impact

Powerhouse: City of Greater Bendigo CEO Andrew Cooney and mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf, manager Bendigo Venues and Events Julie Amos and COGB director strategy and growth Rachel Lee, said the theatre's cultural impact has been extraordinary. Photo: SUPPLIED

THE Ulumbarra Theatre has turned ten after racking up around 765,000 visitors and hosting over 2500 events since 2015, ranging from major productions to national and international touring acts and local shows and school performances.

As most locals would know, the award-winning venue – designed by architecture firm Y2 – is a striking combination of heritage-listed architecture and contemporary design within the historic Sandhurst Gaol (1863 to 2004).

Mayor Cr Andrea Metcalf said its cultural impact on Greater Bendigo has been “extraordinary.”

“Ulumbarra has enriched our region’s arts and culture scene over the past decade,” she said.

“(It’s) a testament to the strong collaboration and partnership between the City of Greater Bendigo, Bendigo Senior Secondary College and other key local stakeholders to drive this ambitious project for a shared arts and education facility.

“The theatre’s official opening in April 2015 was marked by week-long celebrations including a gala event, a community concert and a host of top-class performances.

“In 2025, we are thrilled to welcome back several national and international touring companies who performed here in our opening year, including Shake & Stir with 1984, Bell Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Circus Oz, Bangarra Dance Theatre, Sydney Dance Company and the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra.

“To have these outstanding companies return to our stage is a fitting way to mark this milestone and we look forward to welcoming our community and visitors to Ulumbarra throughout 2025 to share in the celebration of 10 years of performance, creativity, and connection.”