Fancy stepping into a place where Australian playwriting is not just performed but born? This is the Stables Theatre. It is a gem nestled in Darlinghurst, Sydney. But this intimate theatre has a story as unique as the plays it hosts.
Originally, this wasn’t a theatre at all. Picture this: the year is 1888. A butcher named Frederick Penny erects a single-story timber building right here. It has two rooms and a simple purpose. These are stables. Fast forward to 1896. The timber gives way to a two-story brick building. It has an iron roof.
Now, jump ahead to 1970. Ken Horler leases the building for just $17 a week. Can you imagine that? He envisions something bold. Together with John Bell and Richard Wherrett, they transform the old stables into a theatre. It’s the birthplace of the Nimrod Theatre Company. The stage even featured a structural wooden pillar in the center. A window served as an official fire exit. Talk about character.
But the Nimrod Theatre Company soon outgrew this space. In 1974, they moved to Belvoir Street. What happened to the Stables Theatre? Writers Bob Ellis and Ann Brooksbank purchased the building. They renamed it The Stables.
Then, in 1979, a new star was born. The Griffin Theatre Company emerged. It was named after Griffin Street in Surry Hills. Jenny Laing-Peach lived there. Just a year later, in 1980, Griffin Theatre Company became the resident of the Stables Theatre.
The Stables Theatre faced demolition in 1986. But visionary philanthropist Dr. Rodney Seaborn saved the day. He established the Seaborn, Broughton & Walford Foundation. It purchased the Stables. This secured a permanent home for Griffin. In 2000, the theatre was renamed the SBW Stables Theatre. This acknowledges the Seaborn, Broughton & Walford Foundation’s generosity.
The Stables Theatre is currently undergoing renovations. These renovations started in 2024. The stage is expanding. Seating capacity will increase to 140. A new lift and rehearsal space will be added. The new building will reopen in 2026.
The Stables Theatre has a kite-shaped stage. This unique design remains a cherished feature. The renovated venue will include a spacious foyer. It will include a destination bar. It can double as a multipurpose performance space. The lift will make the theatre wheelchair accessible.
The Griffin Theatre Company purchased the Stables Theatre in 2022. This was made possible by a generous gift from the Neilson Foundation. The NSW Government and other philanthropists also contributed.
So, as you stand here, remember the journey of the Stables Theatre. It is from humble stables to a vital hub. It is a place for Australian storytelling. It is a testament to the power of vision, generosity, and a love for the arts.