Carlton Courthouse Theatre

Architect: 1887

City of Melbourne | C10

Building Description

The Gothic style Carlton Courthouse has been used by La Mama Theatre for more than 20 years. Following the 2018 loss by fire of the La Mama Theatre’s Faraday Street venue, the Courthouse has become an even more culturally significant site for Melbourne’s performing arts community.

Built in 1887, directly opposite the former Carlton Police Station, the Carlton Courthouse represents a highly unusual design for 19th Century Public Works Department buildings, and is a reminder of Drummond Street’s early role as the civic centre of Carlton.

The building was recently renovated, with upgrades to its audience entry and bar area, to better cater for more than 22,000 attendees of independent theatre performances each year.

For 52 years La Mama has provided performance and exposure opportunities for playwrights, actors, directors, technicians, film-makers, poets, musicians and comedians, with alumni that includes Cate Blanchett, David Williamson, Richard Frankland and Julia Zemiro.

What's On

Guided Tours of the Courthouse by a longtime La Mama staff member, with conversations around the future plans for the rebuild of La Mama in Faraday Street.

Location