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Who We Are

Foundation Theatres is a wholly Australian owned theatre owner, operator and production investor. Our current venues are two of Sydney’s premier commercial theatres, the Capitol Theatre and Sydney Lyric.  Foundation Theatres continues to seek opportunities to develop its theatre offerings with new live performance venues that support a wide variety of performance types from emerging works & artists to contemporary music through to global theatre blockbusters.  

Our purpose is to operate thriving, internationally renowned, first-class theatres that present the best commercial theatrical product from around the world to the widest possible Australian audience. Our mission is to provide exceptional experiences for theatre makers and theatre goers and contribute meaningfully to a thriving and robust Australian theatre industry for generations to come. Our vision is to deliver unforgettable and inspiring experiences to all those who visit our theatres. 

Foundation Theatres is renowned for its innovative approach, determination, focus on excellence and passion for the live performance industry. These qualities are the foundation of all that we do. We appreciate the social and cultural benefits that a vibrant performing arts community can deliver, and we are committed to ensuring that the whole community can experience and participate in live performances. 

The experienced team at Foundation Theatres share a passion for the performing arts industry; its varied content, and the people it attracts from diverse backgrounds. 

Previously the founder of Bytecraft Entertainment Pty Limited, Stephen has worked as a supplier to the theatre industry in Australia and internationally for more than 40 years. With a passionate interest in the live performance industry, Stephen’s objective is to support the vibrant and successful theatre industry in Australia.

  • CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

    Graeme Kearns has led Foundation Theatres since he joined the company in 2009. Prior to joining Foundation Theatres, Graeme was Commercial Director of one of the world’s leading event production companies. Whilst overseeing the organisation’s theatre operations, Graeme’s primary role focuses on the development of the organisation, strategic operations, theatrical investments and programming.

  • CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER

    Paul Rigby has extensive operational and management experience in the entertainment industry, encompassing theatre, corporate events, concert touring and major ceremonies. With a background specialising in technical operations, logistics and client relations, Paul’s focus is on the management of theatre operations and projects.

  • COMMERCIAL DIRECTOR

    Laura Cochrane leads projects focused on business process and strategic development. After spending over 10 years working in the general management of large scale international musicals, Laura brings to the organisation a strong understanding of the business of theatre, knowledge productions and key industry players.

Foundation Theatres has 25 full time staff, and over 200 casual staff who all work together to deliver exceptional theatre experiences to all that work in or visit our theatres. Our senior executive team are supported by our expert Heads of Departments who each are leaders in their specific field and bring vast experience and depth of knowledge on the multiple facets of commercial theatre management.

Heads of Departments

  • Sam Hardiman

    Head of Ticketing Operations

  • Colin 'Geordie' Alexander

    Head of Technical Operations

  • Karen Murphy

    Senior Executive Assistant

  • Matt Danks

    Head of Venue Facilities