Accessibility Guide - Southbank Theatre 2026

Southbank Theatre 2026

This Visual Story has been created to help powerchair users plan their visit to Southbank Theatre with confidence by removing as many unknowns as possible. Southbank Theatre is a multi-level performing arts venue located within Melbourne’s Arts Precinct and includes a range of indoor spaces, foyers, and performance areas.

This guide provides a visual and step-by-step overview of what to expect when travelling to the theatre, arriving at the venue, and moving through the space in a powerchair. By planning ahead, attending a performance at Southbank Theatre can be a more comfortable and enjoyable experience.

This accessibility guide is designed to support powerchair users, their families, carers, and support workers in preparing for the day.

What to Expect at this Event

Southbank Theatre is a popular performing arts venue and can be busy before performances, during intermission, and at the conclusion of shows. As a powerchair user, you can expect an active indoor environment with foot traffic, queueing areas, and movement through foyers and corridors.

The venue offers step-free access to most public areas, with accessible pathways connecting entrances, theatres, seating areas, amenities, and bar spaces. Pathways are generally wide, however peak times may result in congestion, particularly in foyers and entry points before performances.

Your visit will take place primarily indoors across multiple levels. Flooring may include smooth concrete, carpeted areas, and tiled surfaces throughout the venue. Lighting may be dimmed inside performance spaces, and noise levels may increase in shared areas before and after shows.

Accessible amenities, including toilets and designated seating areas, are available within the venue. Theatre staff are located throughout Southbank Theatre and can assist with directions or accessibility support if required.

This Visual Story will help you understand the layout of the venue and prepare for navigating the theatre at your own pace.

Download the Southbank Theatre Visual Story

How to get there, what to expect and how you can navigate around the Southbank Theatre in a powerchair

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What's On at the Southbank Theatre 2026

23 Jan – 28 Feb 2026

My Brilliant Career

This acclaimed musical returns to Southbank Theatre by popular demand, transforming the iconic Miles Franklin novel into a bold stage production full of pop, rock and bush ballads. Follow Sybylla Melvyn’s journey as she defies expectations and finds her own voice in this energetic and heartfelt story.

14 Feb – 28 Mar 2026

Do Not Pass Go

A sharp and absurd comedy developed through MTC’s NEXT STAGE Writers’ Program, this two-hander explores identity, workplace culture and generational divides with wit and sharp observation.

10 Mar – 18 Apr 2026

West Gate

A powerful new Australian work that dramatizes the 1970 West Gate Bridge collapse — one of the country’s worst industrial disasters. With an ensemble cast bringing this dramatic retelling to life, the production explores the human stories behind this tragic moment in Melbourne’s history.

27 Apr – 5 Jun 2026

The Glass Menagerie

Tennessee Williams’ celebrated classic returns to the Southbank stage for the first time in decades. A poetic and heartbreaking portrait of family, memory and longing, this production features a strong cast in this enduring American masterpiece.

9 May – 27 May 2026

Shoelace Chaser

A brand-new comedy drama celebrating friendship, dreams and the everyday moments that shape us. Developed through MTC’s NEXT STAGE program, this contemporary work brings fresh voices and humour to the Southbank Theatre.

22 Jun – 25 Jul 2026

Losing Face

This hilarious new play tackles ageing, wellness culture and unexpected life turns with sharp humour and relatable characters, starring well-known Australian performers.

21 Jul – 22 Aug 2026

Uncle Vanya (adapted)

A fresh adaptation of Chekhov’s classic exploring unrequited love, dashed hopes and yearning for change — brought to life by an acclaimed creative team and cast.

Learn more about upcoming shows