'The Holy Grail Of Music Venues': Iconic Adelaide Live Music Venue At Risk Of Demolition

8 July 2019 | 3:28 pm | Staff Writer

"We are saying 'Hands Off Thebbie Theatre...'"

Adelaide's iconic Thebarton Theatre is under threat of demolition. 

Speaking with ABC this morning, Acting Transport Minister David Speirs has revealed that the theatre could be one of 600-1000 buildings demolished to make way for a new road upgrade. 

"I'm not going to rule anything in or out," shared Speirs. "But I acknowledge there are a lot of people in South Australia who have an affection for that building and others along that route."

In the time since Speirs appearance on ABC Radio Adelaide Breakfast program, a Change.org petition has gained over 2,500 signatures (surpassing its initial goal) calling for the building to be saved.

"The South Road upgrade threatens the destruction of Adelaide's historic prime mid sized venue Thebarton Theatre," reads the petition addressed to South Australian Premier Steven Marshall.

"This venue is the holy grail of music venues to Adelaide live music lovers. Many live music venues have been demolished over the years and we are saying 'Hands Off Thebbie Theatre'. The destruction of this iconic landmark threatens the live music industry in this state."

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The venue is popular with both international and local touring artists, and currently has shows booked for King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard, Kasey Chambers, Two Door Cinema Club, Tex Perkins, Opeth, Hermitude, Ian Moss, The Jungle Giants and more.