Step into the spotlight at The 1812 Theatre
- binhluong3
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
The 1812 Theatre – Ferntree Gully

A legacy of live theatre
Tucked away on Rose Street in Upper Ferntree Gully, The 1812 Theatre has been delighting audiences for generations. Originally founded in the 1940s as The Ferntree Gully Arts Society Repertory Players, it has since grown into one of Melbourne’s longest-running and most respected independent theatre companies.
For over eight decades, The 1812 has remained true to its purpose, to entertain, inspire, and bring stories to life through exceptional local theatre. Its reputation is built on consistency, quality performances, and a deep love of the arts.
A theatre like no other
The 1812 Theatre offers a unique and immersive experience thanks to its intimate setting and dual performance spaces . With a 152-seat main auditorium and a 55-seat black box theatre, audiences are treated to a diverse program, from comedies and dramas to thrillers and emotionally rich productions, all delivered in a close, engaging atmosphere that brings every story to life.
Each season features six shows, carefully curated and directed by talented creatives who share a passion for storytelling. The high production values and talented casts ensure every show feels polished and professional, while still retaining the warmth and charm of a local theatre.

A night to remember
From the moment you arrive, the 1812 experience feels special. Guests are welcomed into a cosy foyer and bar area, where they can enjoy a glass of wine, a cold beer, or a light snack before the show and during intermission. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, setting the tone for an evening of great entertainment.
Audiences often comment on how completely they become absorbed in each performance, a testament to the skill of the directors, actors, and crew who bring each production to life. After every show, guests are invited to stay for a complimentary drink, chat with the cast and crew, and share their thoughts on the performance, an experience that makes every visit personal and memorable.
A theatre with heart
The 1812 Theatre’s success is powered by a dedicated team of volunteers who pour their time, creativity, and passion into keeping the curtain rising year after year. Their goal is simple, to offer audiences a world-class theatre experience right on their doorstep.
“We’re incredibly proud of our long history,” says the team. “But more than anything, we’re proud to still be here, creating live theatre that people genuinely enjoy. We want locals to know we’re here, and we’d love them to come experience it for themselves.”
Looking ahead
As The 1812 Theatre looks to the future, its mission remains the same: to keep theatre alive, diverse, and exciting. The team hopes more locals will discover the magic happening just around the corner, and join the growing audience that has supported them for decades.
So next time you’re planning a night out, skip the screen and experience the thrill of live performance at The 1812 Theatre, where every show is a story worth sharing.

Contact
![]() | 03 9758 3964 | |
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![]() | 3 Rose St, Upper Ferntree Gully VIC 3156 | |