Princess Theatre redevelopment reaches major milestone

Published on 26 October 2026

The Princess Theatre redevelopment has reached an important milestone, with preliminary site works and demolition now complete and structural works underway.

The project is now moving into its next phase, with temporary propping of the Dress Circle complete. This will allow construction of a new basement level beneath the theatre, providing modern amenities, performer facilities and operational support spaces.

City of Launceston Mayor Matthew Garwood said the milestone marked an exciting step forward for the redevelopment.

"What's been really interesting is what we've uncovered along the way," Mayor Garwood said.

"During demolition, we've discovered pieces of the site's history that we may never have known existed without this project.

"The Princess has been part of Launceston's arts and cultural scene for 100 years, and it's a place that means a lot to so many people. We're respecting that history while making sure the Princess remains a place for our community to enjoy for another 100 years!"

The redevelopment is the City of Launceston's largest capital works project and will restore the heritage-listed Princess Theatre while also delivering a new Earl Street Theatre.

Together, the venues will provide contemporary performance spaces with improved accessibility, backstage facilities and audience amenities.

Early works have also revealed some fascinating pieces of the theatre's history, including terrazzo flooring in the Princess Theatre foyer dating from its 1939 Art Deco renovation, as well as old bottles, newspaper clippings and voting slips.

Fairbrother Project Manager Jon Martin said the company was proud to be part of the transformation.

"Fairbrother is proud to partner with the City of Launceston to help restore and transform this iconic venue for our community," Mr Martin said.

Structural works will now continue as the redevelopment moves into its next phase.