the history of theatre royal castlemaine

always was. always will be.

The Theatre Royal Castlemaine stands on Dja Dja Wurrung country. We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Dja Dja Wurrung people, as the traditional custodians of this land, and to their Elders past, present and emerging. We extend that respect to any First Nations people who are viewing this today. We acknowledge that Aboriginal sovereignty has not been ceded.

LIVE ENTERTAINMENT

Since 1854

Established in 1854, Theatre Royal began its life providing live entertainment for the thousands of diggers who migrated to central Victoria in search of gold. 

One of the first "picture palaces" to screen silent movies in 1919 and then the 'talkies' followed, Theatre Royal is firmly cemented in the evolution of Australian cinema. 

Proudly one of the oldest continuously operating theatres in the Southern Hemisphere, this historical business also holds an important place in the hearts of the Castlemaine community, coming to represent the beating heart of our vibrant, artistic town. 

A cinema, a live music venue, a bar, a bottle shop and a cultural institution all housed within a heritage listed building, Theatre Royal is a truly unique place.