Description

La Mama Theatre stands on traditional lands of the Kulin nation, in the block bounded by Lygon, University, Drummond and Faraday Streets.

Originally built in 1883 for Carlton printer Anthony Reuben Ford, the building was used as an electrical engineering workshop, boot and shoe factory and silk underwear factory until the 1960s, when it was rented by Betty Burstall from Carlton’s Del Monaco family.

La Mama Theatre was established in July 1967 as a non-profit, experimental theatre to provide opportunity, nurturing and support for playwrights, actors, directors, technicians, poets, musicians, comedians and filmmakers. Since then, alumni have included David Williamson, Cate Blanchett, Julia Zemiro, Christos Tsiolkas, Uncle Jack Charles, Judith Lucy and numerous emerging and established artists.

A devastating fire destroyed most of the historically significant and heritage-listed building in May 2018. However, with unrelenting determination from team La Mama and financial support from all levels of government, philanthropic partners, advocates and donors across the arts community and beyond, the newly and lovingly built La Mama Theatre re-emerged like a phoenix from the ashes in December 2021.

Architects and design team Meg White and Cottee Parker Architects, and builders Chroma Group recaptured all that La Mama is and provided new opportunities for generations of theatre-makers, artists and audiences to come.

What's On

Join one of four guided tours on offer to explore the theatre and backstage areas, led by long-term experienced La Mama staff members. Hear the stories, and learn about the continued significance of this Melbourne icon.

La Mama will also be open for you to pop in and look around! Enjoy a free coffee and chat with La Mama staff members about the theatre's history and activities.