Two electric cranes loom over the fast-moving lyric theatre construction site in Canberra's city centre, where foundation works are nearly complete and the above-ground structure is soon to take shape.
Excavations have reached the bottom of the orchestra pit, which will have space to accommodate up to 100 musicians, and works are continuing in the area below the stage area of the 2000-seat theatre.
Construction began in January and is on track for completion in 2028.
The government expects the theatre's larger capacity will be able to attract bigger touring shows to the capital, including international musicals, ballet and opera.
Multiplex regional director Harry Young said the theatre was now starting to emerge from the ground. Multiplex holds the $349 million contract for the construction of the theatre.
"As structural works progress, the community will start to see the four-level, purpose-built theatre take shape and the vision for a world-class performing arts destination become a reality," Mr Young said.
"The project has been shaped by extensive engagement with First Nations communities, and the burial of the ashes from the smoking ceremony reflects the project's enduring connection to Country and the cultural significance embedded in its design from the outset."
Chief Minister Andrew Barr said the theatre was a once-in-a-generation project that would help reshape the city centre and bring a world-class venue to the city.
"This isn't just an investment in arts and culture. By year five of operation, the new lyric theatre is projected to contribute almost $34 million each year to Canberra's economy and generate more than 111,000 visitor nights annually," Mr Barr said.
"The venue will attract new visitors, support local restaurants, cafes, hotels and businesses, and create jobs across the arts, events and hospitality sectors.
"The new theatre, along with other major projects such as the National Convention and Entertainment Centre, is central to our vision for a connected and thriving city centre."
Canberra Theatre Centre executive director Georgia Hendy said the theatre would help the centre attract major productions.
"The new lyric theatre will allow Canberra Theatre Centre to further enrich our city's cultural life, support the continued growth of our local creative sector and ensure future generations can continue to experience unforgettable live performances right here in our nation's capital," Ms Hendy said.
Following a run of theatre production and tour cancellations around the country, the Canberra Theatre Centre said it closely monitored developments in the live performance industry.
"We recognise the challenges recent cancellations present for audiences, artists, crews and creative teams, and the broader pressures currently affecting national touring," the Canberra Theatre Centre told The Canberra Times in June.
"CTC provides ongoing advice to government on industry conditions and their implications for touring to Canberra.
"This advice is helping inform planning for the new lyric theatre, which is being designed to meet contemporary technical and commercial requirements and strengthen Canberra's position within the national touring network."
