Have Civic Theatre tickets in your hot little hands? Let's make a complete experience of it!
Securing those all-important tickets is the first step, so congrats if you're on your way. But do you know the theatre's historical significance, where to grab a pre-show dinner or post-show cocktail, or where you're going to rest your entertained head later that night?
Well, read on…
The Civic Theatre's grand foyer welcomes guests with all the panache and theatrical prowess of a building that has seen its fair share of live performances — and once inside you know you're in for something special.
Civic Theatre
Since opening in 1929, the Civic Theatre has been the baroque jewel in Newcastle's entertainment crown, thanks to the vision of architect Henry Eli White. White's ornate interior features a crowned proscenium arch, an exquisitely detailed grand dome, and Spanish-inspired Royal boxes. Yep, the theatre's vibe is 100% old-school exquisite with all the best touches of modern finesse, like impeccable sound and state-of-the-art lighting.
Regarded as one of the finest theatres in NSW, the Civic Theatre attracts a continuous stream of high-calibre international and national tours, many performing to sellout crowds. Lucky ticket holders are treated to a huge range of live performances, including music, plays, musicals, and comedy shows — with this current season seeing the likes of Dawn French, Celia Paquola, Missy Higgins, Kip Moore, Celeste Barber, David Walliams, and the Melbourne Comedy Festival Roadshow all gracing the stage.
Civic Theatre
Whether you want to grab a coffee after a matinee, get all romantic with a three-course meal and show combo, or you're just after a quick drink before the concert kicks off, the Civic Theatre's central location makes it super easy to tee up some tasty treats.
Especially as there's something for all budgets and occasions within a couple of blocks of the theatre. So, we've put together a list of options, from dinner through to drinks, to help you plan your refreshments to get the most out of your Civic Theatre experience:
Dinner Decadence
Crystalbrook Kingsley's Roundhouse has the winning trifecta — picturesque views, indulgent menus, and ultra-easy proximity to the theatre. So, Roundhouse is an obvious choice if you're after a seamless evening of decadence.
Other first-class dinner options, include Lightyears and Ginger Megs, both serve up unique Asian fusion menus (try their dumplings and cocktails!), and for churrasco lovers…You must get along to Meet.
Ginger Megs
Casual Classics
Rascal and Milky Lane are nearby burger joints boasting next-level, flavour-filled burgers, and deep-fried deliciousness. Menya Makato is a tasty low-key Japanese option and Foghorn Brewery specialises in wood-fired pizzas and classic pub fare. The Lucky Hotel is well worth walking the extra couple of blocks to enjoy a meal in their Palm Springs-style courtyard.
Lucky Hotel
Cocktails & Vino
Whether meeting friends for pre-show drinks or wanting a cheeky cocktail once the show is over, the theatre's central location, again, delivers the goods. Coal & Cedar offers a quirky speakeasy experience, and Romberg's Rooftop Bar at Crystalbrook Kingsley is both refined and vibrant. For casual pub vibes, Clarendon Hotel is a popular go-to, plus the Civic Theatre Bar is perfect for pre-show meetups.
Coal & Cedar
Midday Matinee
For light lunches or rich, smooth coffees The Press Coffee and Book House is an easy,' Yes!'. If you're happy to venture just a little further, Arno Deli is a local panini and cannoli specialist, and Two Bob's Bakery and Pantry has incredible croissants, Danishes, and fresh artisan breads. The Civic Theatre Café pours a cracking coffee and offers a host of mouth-watering menu options — and you have the shortest of walks to your seat!
Arno Deli
Sweet treats
Treat the crew or satisfy your sweet tooth with some of the delectable dessert venues that are just a short walk from the theatre. Milky Lane is known for their classic shakes and ultra-decadent desserts, and Popolo Gelateria scoops up artisan gelato — all house-made, all incredible. Along Darby Street, Monello also serves up hand-crafted small-batch gelato and sorbet or Coco Monde is a chocolate lovers paradise.
There are a variety of incredible accommodation options close to the Civic Theatre, like the luxurious Crystalbrook Kingsley — you might remember the Roundhouse and Romberg's mentioned above! Plus, there are many other centrally located and beautifully appointed options, like The Lucky Hotel and Clarendon Hotel.
However, Newcastle is compact and easy to get around, and there are plenty of other luxurious options that will also get you exploring Newcastle's iconic highlights. For water views of the harbour, there's Rydges Newcastle, or Novotel Newcastle Beach and Noah's on the Beach will have you squishing your toes in the sand before you can say 'buffet breakfast'.
Always delivering on wow factor, QT Newcastle is just a quick light rail trip from the theatre and boasts state-of-the-art facilities, divine restaurants, and a glorious epic Rooftop Bar. Or heading west, Little National Newcastle is big on bespoke luxury and Quest Apartments is a favourite for bigger groups and families.
All that's left now is to snap up those tickets and enjoy the show!
