A renovated 500-seat proscenium arch theatre with fly tower right on the city fringe? This is the news every mid-scale theatre producer in Sydney has been waiting to hear.

Overlooking Parramatta Road, Sydney University’s Footbridge Theatre is about to be fully renovated and will stage shows again from 2024.

The Footbridge Theatre. Photo supplied

But here’s the rub: to strut these boards you will have to be a student of Sydney Conservatorium’s Music Theatre course. The Footbridge is being reincarnated as a teaching facility only – at least in the short to medium term.

The aim is to give Music Theatre students a permanent teaching and production home that closely replicates professional standards and practice, said Professor Anna Reid, Dean of the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.

“The revival of the Footbridge Theatre not only benefits our students, but it also holds immense value for the city of Sydney. By nurturing and cultivating our talented individuals, we are contributing to the rich cultural fabric of our community. As these graduates step into the professional realm, Sydney can anticipate an influx of exceptional and well-trained performers who will bring joy, entertainment, and a touch of magic...