Sydney’s Historic Genesian Theatre Seeks a New Performer
There’s a certain hush that falls over a theatre when the lights go down and the curtain rises on another world. For nearly seven decades, that magical transformation took place at the Genesian Theatre on Kent Street—a 19th-century Victorian Gothic church turned stage, steeped in theatrical history and rumored to be haunted by two resident ghosts. Today, this heritage-listed gem is preparing for its next act, offering a unique opportunity to prospective tenants who sense the creative potential echoing through its historic walls.
Originally built circa 1868 as the Church of St John the Evangelist, the structure at 408 Kent Street has lived many lives. It served as both a church and a poor school until 1932, when it became the Kursaal Theatre, home to the Sydney Repertory Company, and then transitioned into the first Matthew Talbot Hostel in 1938. It wasn’t until January 1954 that this grand Gothic space would house what would become one of Sydney’s most enduring community theatres.
The Genesian Theatre Company: Past, Present, and Future
Formed in 1944 by members of the Sydney Catholic Youth Organisation, the Genesian Theatre was named in honor of Saint Genesius, the patron saint of actors. Beginning life as an amateur troupe, it soon grew into a vibrant community theatre in the heart of the Sydney CBD. Over the decades, it produced a remarkable six main stage productions each year, as well as classes, workshops, and other theatrical events, all designed to encourage emerging talents both on and off the stage.
Membership has long been open to anyone over the age of 18, offering opportunities to participate in every facet of theatre production—from acting and set design to directing and administration. This inclusive, hands-on approach has helped the Genesian develop a roster of notable alumni, including John Bell, Bryan Brown, Baz Luhrmann, Coral Lansbury, Judi Farr, Nick Enright, Angela Punch, and Peter Carroll. Many of these now-celebrated artists learned their craft while performing under the Gothic arches of the former St John’s Church, forging a legacy that has shaped Australian theatre and film.
However, in September 2017, the Catholic Church advised the Genesian that it had sold the heritage-listed building to a developer for more than $6 million, requiring the theatre company to vacate by November 2018. Through negotiation with the new owner, the Genesian managed to remain on Kent Street until 2020 and later secured another year’s extension. Ultimately, the curtains did come down on this chapter in 2021, as the group planned its move to a new venue. Following renovations, the theatre company reopened in early 2025 at a hall in St Joseph’s Church, Rozelle—ensuring that, while it has departed its longstanding home, its commitment to community-based theatre continues unabated.
Ghostly Legends and Star-Studded Alumni
Of course, not all of the Genesian’s colorful inhabitants were paying customers. Theatre folklore holds that two friendly spirits roam its corridors—some say they’re devoted parishioners from its church days, others whisper they might be late actors forever awaiting the next curtain call. Regardless, these apparitions are as much part of the theatre’s lore as the hush before a performance.
In its seven decades of operation on Kent Street, the Genesian hosted more than 450 productions, seating audiences of up to 125 people at a time. The building’s spiritual and architectural charm—complete with stained-glass windows, soaring timber ceilings, and a palpable sense of history—offered the perfect crucible for actors honing their craft. That crucible helped shape the careers of some of Australia’s most notable theatre and film personalities, from John Bell and Bryan Brown to Baz Luhrmann. Today, their success stories stand as a testament to the Genesian’s enduring impact on the national arts scene.
Curtain Rises on a New Opportunity
With the Genesian Theatre Company now settled in Rozelle, 408 Kent Street is on the hunt for its next tenants. Ray White Commercial South Sydney agent John Skufris is marketing the property—available on a short-term 12-month lease—and sees endless creative potential for those who step inside:
“We anticipate the building may likely be of interest to other theatrical groups, performing arts groups, creative users and/or workshops and pop-up tenants.”
The venue features a small reception or cloakroom, a bar area, a sound room, and two levels of seating beneath the elevated main stage. With its cavernous ceilings, historical intrigue, and central CBD location, the former church-turned-playhouse offers a ready-made performance space—or a blank canvas for daring new ventures. At a monthly lease of around $6,000 (including GST), it’s a rare chance to inject contemporary creativity into a 150-year-old landmark.
Heritage Meets the Next Chapter
For dreamers and doers willing to think outside the traditional theatre box, this Gothic Revival marvel poses limitless possibilities. Whether you’re a theatre collective looking for an atmospheric stage, a creative entrepreneur planning workshops or immersive experiences, or a community group eager to leave your mark on Sydney’s cultural fabric, the Genesian’s old walls still resonate with possibility.
The building may be changing hands—and the Genesian Theatre Company itself may have relocated—but the story is far from over. In fact, a new era is just beginning. Amid the ghosts, the history, and the memories of more than 70 years of applause, 408 Kent Street awaits its next act. Will you be the one to raise the curtain?
Interested in Leasing or Learning More?
For enquiries on leasing the historic Genesian Theatre, contact:
John Skufris
Ray White Commercial South Sydney
