Part of the NIDA (National Institute of Dramatic Art) complex, the Parade Theatre seats around 700, in a very steep three-tier horseshoe format. It is used by the school, which puts on very professional performances with casts that in the past have featured some of Australia's best known stage performers. The theatre is also available for rent to the public, and is used by dance and performance schools from all over Sydney for their annual recitals.
In its spacious foyer, there are often interesting exhibits of art and costume, and there is a bar selling the usual quite-pricey theatre drinks and snacks. Parking can be tricky, though the streets behind the theatre are residential and have kerbside parking that is only limited during the day.
Inside the theatre, acoustics are good, and whilst the upper tiers do make you feel like you are watching from an eyrie, visibility for the almost the entire stage is fine. It is however very dark inside, so even once the lights are on for intermission, don't expect to be able to read your program. read more