HENRY LAWSON THEATRE

The Henry Lawson Theatre in Werrington County, Sydney, has been a cornerstone of community arts in the Penrith region since its establishment in 1968. Founded by John Upton, editor of the Penrith Press, as part of the broader Henry Lawson Club, the organisation originally supported a range of cultural and social groups, with the theatre company quickly becoming its most successful branch. Emerging from a local drama group associated with the W.E. Cuckson zipper factory, the theatre staged its first productions in local halls before moving into its purpose-built venue, known as “The Shed,” in 1974. The theatre also played an important role in local celebrations, including the Penrith Centenary in 1971. The site expanded further with the opening of a licensed club by Prime Minister Gough Whitlam in 1976. Over the decades, “The Shed” has grown into a well-established community performance space, hosting hundreds of productions and drama festivals. Today, the Henry Lawson Theatre is a 90-seat venue that presents around five productions each year, supports the Henry Lawson Camera Club, and continues to welcome and train volunteers interested in all aspects of theatre production.