Backers push to save approved DA before 19 August
A rally to save Marian St Theatre will take place outside Gordon Library on Sunday 2 August 2026, as campaigners push to protect the venue’s approved redevelopment before its Development Application expires on 19 August 2026.
Residents, artists and community groups have been asked to wear red for the protest, which will run from 12pm to 2pm in Gordon. Organisers call it Rally in Red.
The action follows Ku-ring-gai Council’s decision on 16 June 2026 to abandon the approved redevelopment after more than 20 years of reports, consultation and planning.
Marian Street Theatre has stood derelict for 13 years. Over more than a century, the site served Ku-ring-gai first as a memorial hall and later as one of Australia’s most respected suburban theatres.
Tonkin Zulaikha Greer redevelopment plan
Campaign organisers warn that $1.7 million in public spending on architectural design and community engagement could be wasted if the DA lapses. They argue that expiry would also remove the only approved path to reopen Marian St Theatre as a contemporary arts centre.
Marian St Theatre Action chair Jessica Blaxland Ashby urged supporters to act quickly. She said there were only weeks left to save the approved plans and called on residents to stand with the campaign.
Nationally recognised theatre architects Tonkin Zulaikha Greer designed the approved redevelopment. The plan includes spaces for theatre, music, dance, exhibitions and community events.
Supporters say the project would fill a clear gap in local arts infrastructure. Ku-ring-gai has 44 sports fields, 67 tennis courts and two golf courses, yet it has no dedicated, publicly accessible performing arts venue.
The council area also recently spent $26.6 million on two basketball courts inside a high school. Campaigners argue the Marian St project would create a vibrant and accessible cultural destination instead of leaving the site unused.
Meanwhile, the campaign has gathered momentum since the 16 June 2026 council decision. A NSW Parliamentary petition has attracted support, and the theatre’s future has been raised in both the Australian Parliament and the NSW Parliament.
Federal Member for Bradfield Nicolette Boele backed the campaign. She said preserving cultural heritage and providing arts infrastructure mattered for growing North Shore communities.
State Member for Davidson Matt Cross thanked volunteers for promoting culture and the arts in Ku-ring-gai. He also signalled ongoing support for Marian St ACTION.
Greens senator David Shoebridge also supported the push. He said future generations should have the same chance to experience live theatre at Marian Street Theatre.
Campaign information and the petition are available at marianstaction.com.au.
