A beautiful outside theatre in Leura, the Blue Mountains often used for outdoor performances through the summer months.
from the website…
The idea of an outside theatre had been popular since Edwardian times, as part of a collection of themes revealed separately in enclosed gardens. The Garden Theatre at Everglades is recessed off the left side of the Studio Terrace looking towards the view, but its presence is concealed until one reaches it so that it is a surprise, and does not detract sight lines to the vista beyond.
The golden pyrmont sandstone arch which forms the dramatic backdrop to the stage was originally the recessed entrance to the London Chartered Bank of Australia on Sydney’s George Street. The building was demolished to make way for Van de Velde’s then ultra-modern (Art Deco) Feltex House. The arch had been sold, but was ‘rescued’ by Sorensen who persuaded Van de Velde to buy it back. It was moved, stone by stone, to Everglades where it was reassembled with the addition of a small, semi-circular fountain. It has become an iconic feature of the property. The top of the arch features the coat of arms of London Assurance. The central bronze relief set in the centre of the arch was designed by Otto Steen and depicts a nude male with staff in a classical victory pose. Bacchus too makes a second entrance, as a wall sculpture which backs onto the Bacchus fountain on the Upper Drive.
The arch is flanked by tall hedges clipped formally to form the wings of the stage. The original hedges were dying back by the 1990s and replaced in 1996. The stage is a major focus for the cultural and community entertainments -including weddings -which bring many thousands of visitors to Everglades each year.
Getting there:
For evening performances the ideal way of traveling to the performances is to drive.
Public Transport
Buses from Leura & Katoomba Stations
For evening performances check bus times as there may not be a service.
Mountain Link Trolley Buses and Fantastic Aussie Tours both offer an all-day special on their buses which allows you to get on and off at attractions around the Leura-Katoomba area. Buses of both companies stop at Everglades: Trolley Buses every hour, Fantastic Aussie Tours every two hours.
Walking from Leura Station
For evening performances this may not be ideal.
You can walk to Everglades from Leura Station in 20 minutes. From the station, go east down Railway Parade, take the fourth right into Victoria Street, cross Megalong St and continue to Craigend St where you dog-leg left then right into Everglades Ave. Everglades is down the far end.
Address
Cnr Norwest Blvd and Elizabeth MacArthur Drive, Bella Vista
Entry fees
Usually not applicable for evening performances
National Trust Members – FREE ENTRY
Adult $10
Concession $8
Children $4
37 Everglades Avenue
Leura
