The Empire Raises the Curtain on its Stunning New Centrepiece
After nearly three decades of quietly setting the scene, the Empire Theatre’s iconic red curtain is taking its turn in the spotlight with the unveiling of a premium upgrade.
For the first time since The Empire’s grand reopening in 1997, the much-loved curtain has been replaced, marking a significant milestone in Toowoomba Regional Council’s ongoing commitment to preserving, maintaining and enhancing the historic precinct.
Unveiled in mid-April, the curtain is the result of an extensive 18-month consultation, design and manufacturing process, funded through the Toowoomba Regional Council’s 2024/25 capital program.
Standing an impressive nine metres tall and stretching 18 metres wide, the curtain is crafted from premium, inherently fire-retardant velour in the venue’s signature rich red.
In a nod to heritage and sustainability, the original gold fringing has been carefully preserved and reattached—honouring the past while embracing the future.
Weighing over 300 kilograms, the new curtain replaces its predecessor after close to 28 years of loyal service, having framed countless performances on the grand art deco stage.
The Empire General Manager Giuliana Bonel expressed her excitement and gratitude for the transformation.
“We are thrilled to be able to finally reveal and raise our stunning new house curtain for the first time to audiences at Queensland Ballet’s Coppélia this Saturday,” Ms Bonel said.
“For the past 27 years, our original curtain was the first glimpse our audience had to the moments that would unfold on stage,” she said.
This a moment that is more than just a technical upgrade—it's a statement of confidence in live performance in our region from our local council.
Giuliana Bonel - The Empire General Manager
“We are deeply grateful to Toowoomba Regional Council for their unwavering support of The Empire and their continued investment in both our heritage and our future as a cultural cornerstone in the Region.”
Toowoomba Regional Council Library and Cultural Services portfolio spokesperson Cr Melissa Taylor welcomed the curtain’s installation ahead of this week’s performance.
“The Empire Theatre is an iconic cultural institution and a significant drawcard for our Region,” Cr Taylor said.
“We’re incredibly fortunate to have such a treasure in our community, and this investment ensures The Empire continues to shine—both as an architectural showpiece and as a vibrant home for the performing arts.”
For information on upcoming events or to book tickets, contact The Empire on 1300 655 299 or visit empiretheatre.com.au.
#What’s New
The Empire's hit school holiday event, THRIVE Festival returns from September 24-27, this year taking audiences on an out-of-this-world intergalactic adventure celebrating the marvels of space.
As the award-winning Wynnum Fringe draws to a close on Sunday, the team are taking the show on the road for the first Queensland Fringe, kicking off in Charleville and making its way through Augathella and Roma before its final stop at The Empire in Toowoomba from August 6-7.
The Matilda Award-winning production, Your Song, is set to dazzle at The Empire on Wednesday 8 July, bringing together a star-studded cast, a talented group of local singers and the unforgettable music of Elton John for a one-night-only celebration
From outback skies to theatre stages and township main streets, Queensland Fringe is hitting the road for its inaugural year, bringing live music, comedy and cabaret to communities across regional Queensland.
The Empire faces the future with a clear vision and renewed direction following the appointment of a new Chair and four additional Directors to its Board.
The Empire celebrates a million-dollar milestone this month, with the Friends of The Empire having donated more than $1M to the theatre since the group’s formation in 1997.
