Kent Theatre – A Rich History Since 1868

420 Kent Street, Sydney

Steeped in more than 150 years of Sydney's history, the heritage-listed building at 420 Kent Street has enjoyed a remarkable journey from a place of worship and education to a refuge for those in need, and ultimately a celebrated home of live theatre.

Its story began in 1856, when land was acquired for the Catholic Church. Designed by architect William Munro and constructed in 1868, the building opened as St John the Evangelist Church, featuring distinctive Victorian Free Gothic architecture, sandstone construction and beautiful stained-glass windows. In its early decades, the building served both religious and educational purposes, later becoming St John's Poor School, operated by the Sisters of St Joseph until 1927.

Following its religious and educational years, the building was repurposed and, by 1932, had been deconsecrated and transformed into the Kursaal Theatre, home to the New Sydney Repertory Company. In 1938, it took on a very different role as the original Matthew Talbot Hostel, operated by the St Vincent de Paul Society to provide shelter and support for homeless and disadvantaged men until 1952.

In 1954, the building began one of its most celebrated chapters when it became home to the Genesian Theatre Company. For approximately 70 years, the venue was an important part of Sydney's theatrical landscape, staging hundreds of productions and helping nurture generations of performers, including notable Australian talents such as Bryan Brown, John Bell and Baz Luhrmann. The company subsequently relocated to Rozelle, bringing an extraordinary era at Kent Street to a close.

Today, the building enters an exciting new chapter as Kent Theatre, continuing its longstanding association with arts, culture and entertainment. With its historic architectural character and rich theatrical heritage, Kent Theatre seeks to honour the building's remarkable past while creating a vibrant destination for live comedy, music, theatre and special events in the heart of Sydney.