The curtain rises again on one of Greater Western Sydney's most cherished stages. The Regent Theatre - a Richmond landmark that has anchored the heart of Hawkesbury entertainment since 1935 - is officially reopening its doors this weekend, returning to its former glory as a premier destination for live music, comedy and cinema after an extensive multi-million-dollar renovation.
And if the public's response is any indication, the region has been waiting for exactly this. The Official Re-Opening Show featuring Cold Chisel's legendary guitarist Ian Moss on Saturday 2nd May sold out in under an hour, with three of the venue's first four shows already completely sold out.
The Regent's story is a rich one. Established in 1935, it served the Hawkesbury community for decades before television legend Mike Walsh famously purchased and restored it in 1976 — a celebrated chapter in the venue's long history. New owner Duncan MacKay is now writing the next one.
"Greater Western Sydney is one of the fastest growing urban populations in the country," MacKay said. "We've put our heart and soul into bringing The Regent Theatre back to life. It presents a quality new venue for a market that we understand is hungry for local, domestic and international touring entertainment. We can't wait to welcome artists and fans."
The renovation has been comprehensive. The theatre now holds a licensed capacity of over 700, with flexible configurations for both theatre-style seated shows (518 seats) and full standing concert mode. A brand-new stage, sound and lighting system and digital cinema projection screen bring the technical offering into the modern era, while dedicated dressing rooms, a direct loading dock and multiple licensed bars in the stalls and dress circle foyers round out the experience for artists and audiences alike.
The opening weekend gets underway on Friday 1st May with country music rising star Sara Berki performing alongside her band, Golden Guitar winner William Alexander and local support act Ellerie Rose — all part of Great Southern Nights 2026.
Programming and venue consultant Brett Hlywa of Sound Advice Music says the theatre's booking philosophy is built around diversity and community. "To have a rising talent like Sara Berki and the legendary Ian Moss performing across our opening weekend is a privilege," he said. "Our aim is to curate a diverse program of live events that support both emerging and established artists — and connect them with our growing audience in Greater Western Sydney."
Beyond opening weekend, the calendar is already filling fast. The Sydney Comedy Festival Showcase Tour, Ben Lee, Kate Ceberano, Anh Do, Tim Freedman and The Robertson Brothers are all announced - a lineup that signals The Regent is serious about its place on the national touring circuit.
For the Hawkesbury community, this weekend marks more than a reopening. It's a homecoming. Full program and tickets available at theregentrichmond.com.au.
