Stage stars: The best local theatres across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs
Keen to see some high-quality drama or have a laugh with a farce but don’t want to trek into the city? Some of the city’s best talent can be found just around the corner.
Matthew Sims
June 16, 2025
Going to see a show in the city can sometimes be a daunting task - should we book a hotel or make a trip out of it?
Well, we’ve taken the guesswork out of choosing and highlighted some of the best local theatre companies across Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
Did we miss something? Let us know [email protected]
Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre Company
Operating out of the Lilydale Athenaeum Hall, originally built in 1888, this theatre company has a long and storied history dating back to 1976.
The company produces five shows annually, each running for a three-week season, in addition to a number of other events and productions.
Where: 39-41 Castella Street, Lilydale
Next Show: “The Diary of Anne Frank” from July 3 to July 11
The 1812 Theatre
Formerly known as the Ferntree Gully Arts Society Repertory Players, The 1812 Theatre was formed in the 1960s and is one of the longest-running theatre groups in Melbourne.
Still going strong decades after a fire burned down their initial home in Lysterfield in 1972, the company has since flourished, making a new home in an abandoned cinema on Rose Street in Upper Ferntree Gully.
Where: 3 Rose St, Upper Ferntree Gully
Next Show: Sweeney Todd on the Razor's Edge from July 1 to July 12
Gemco Players Community Theatre
Standing for the towns across the Hills which welcomes “players” - Gembrook, Emerald, Monbulk, Macclesfield, Menzies Creek, and Cockatoo - Gemco operates out of the The Gem Community Arts Centre in Emerald.
It hosts a wide range of youth programs, as well as the Dandenong Ranges One Act Play Festival running from August 15 to 17, with theatre companies from Melbourne’s east competing.
Where: 19 Kilvington Drive, Emerald
Next Show: “Welcome to Little Grimley” from July 18 to July 27
Peridot Theatre Company
Since its first effort in 1985, Peridot has performed more than 150 productions, usually producing four full-length plays every year and a one-act season.
The company also hosts the Monash One Act Play Festival every year, pitting local and statewide troupes against each other in friendly competition.
Where: Clayton Theatrette, Clayton Community Centre, 9-15 Cooke Street, Clayton
Next Show: “Frankenstein” from August 15 to August 24
The Basin Theatre
Formed in 1954, The Basin has been showcasing local talent in its own 125-seat theatre since 1973.
Shining a spotlight on local Australian playwrights and also staging popular and well-known plays from around the globe, the company hosts professional comedy evenings, children’s theatre and special musical events, in addition to its regular seasons.
Where: Corner Doongalla Road and Simpsons Road, The Basin
Next Show: “War of the Worlds: A Radio Play” running from June 19 to June 22
Image Credit: Alexandra Carter (Wanderling Photography) and Jason Triggs