Behind the scenes at The Princess Theatre

Twilight at the Princess Theatre: A Night to Remember

On Wednesday evening, Brisbane Living Heritage members and guests gathered for a very special Twilight at the Princess Theatre. This event offered a rare chance to step inside one of Brisbane’s most treasured heritage buildings, first opened in 1886 and beautifully renewed through recent renovations.

The Princess Theatre is Brisbane’s oldest surviving theatre, designed by architect Francis Drummond Greville Stanley. Over the decades it has been home to plays, films, dances, and community gatherings, and has also seen life as a warehouse and a furniture store before being returned to its theatrical roots. Its 2021 restoration has ensured that this landmark continues to shine as a cultural hub for the city.

For some, Wednesday night was their very first time discovering the Princess; for others, it was a return to a space they remembered in its earlier form. Together, these perspectives created a vibrant mix of nostalgia and fresh curiosity – a reminder of how heritage continues to connect people across generations.

Highlights of the evening included a private guided tour through the entire building, led by historian Robert Allen and Events Director Harry Upton, who shared fascinating stories of the theatre’s past, present, and future. Guests explored hidden corners and restored features, gaining an insider’s view rarely available to the public.

The event was also a wonderful opportunity for current members to connect socially, and for new faces and potential members to see what Brisbane Living Heritage has to offer. The sense of community and shared appreciation for Brisbane’s living history was at the heart of the evening.

Twilight at the Princess Theatre was more than just a tour – it was a celebration of place, people, and the continuing story of Brisbane’s heritage.