Sydney has a new theatre! The Sydney Coliseum at West HQ in Rooty Hill gave its first public performance last night, unveiling a new, multi-purpose, 2000-seat venue that is a great addition to Western Sydney and the Sydney theatre scene generally.

David Campbell and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra at the Sydney Coliseum. Photo © Robert Catto

Designed by Cox Architecture, the Sydney Coliseum adjoins the Rooty Hill RSL, which financed the new venue. Built in just over two years, it’s an astonishing investment and achievement. Front of house staff all seemed proud of the new theatre and were all incredibly helpful and friendly as they pointed the audience to the spacious three-level foyer with its grand staircase adorned by The Field of Stars chandelier made from green crystals. The theatre itself, which has acoustic wooden panels on the auditorium walls, has a large stage and a fly tower, and can stage concerts or operate as a lyric theatre for shows including musicals.

The first concert, Christmas at the Coliseum, was an entertaining event featuring David Campbell and the Sydney Symphony Orchestra – just the right, relaxing way to kick things off at this festive...