Theatre Royal, Hindley Street, c.1878

State Library Catalogue Reference: B 39362/5

This is the second Theatre Royal to be built on this site in Hindley Street, seen here in 1890. The first was built in 1868 but was soon inadequate. The new Theatre Royal was built in 1878 to the design of Melbourne architect George R Johnson. The new building was a simple but well proportioned building with careful detailing, Corinthian pilasters, and was topped by a balustrade with urns and the royal coat of arms.

The interior was on three levels with three entrances for the different sections of the audience. The pit and gallery were reached by a laneway, the stalls by a narrow front door, and the dress circle by the wide main entrance.

The Theatre Royal became Adelaide's best known and most loved theatre. Famous performers included Sarah Bernhardt and the Oliviers. The building was modified in 1884 and again in 1913. In 1962, it was demolished by department store Miller Anderson and Co to make way for a multi-level carpark.