BEST 300 SEAT VENUE: BELVOIR UPSTAIRS THEATRE

The Belvoir theatre was born from the collective action of more than 600 actors and theatre lovers who rallied together to save the former Nimrod Theatre from closing its doors as an inner-city performance space in the mid 1980‘s. So it’s no surprise that a quarter of a century later, this much-loved local institution continues to forge a unique approach to producing contemporary Australian drama, on stage that is. The audience is as diverse as the season productions by resident Company B and while the topics covered on stage may be complex (to wit, the recent The Power Of Yes about the Global Financial Crisis), the general vibe is relaxed and a little bit irreverent. The venue, which has operated as a theatre since the early 1970’s, underwent extensive renovations in 2005-06. Yes, the seats are comfier and the bar is a little more flash, but the productions retain their edge and energy. Best of all, it’s a stone’s throw from the bars and restaurants of Surry Hills, so when it comes to a post-show drink to continue your discussion of the evening’s performance, you’re spoilt for choice. (Danielle Bevins-Sundvall)

Belvoir St Upstairs Theatre, 25 Belvoir St, Surry Hills. 9699 3444, belvoir.com.au