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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 large commercial theatres, the Capitol Theatre and Sydney Lyric, as well as our new intimate theatre, Foundry Theatre, opening in February 2025.

Foundation Theatres continues to seek opportunities to develop our theatre offerings with new live performance venues that support a wide variety of performance types from emerging works and artists; to contemporary music and 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. 

Previously the founder of Bytecraft Entertainment Pty Limited, Stephen Found 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 more than 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 35 permanent staff, and more than 200 casual staff who all work together to deliver exceptional theatre experiences to all that work in or visit our theatres. Our Executive Team is 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.