The Theatre on Chester
bringing the joy
of theatre to
everyone!
Established in 1956, the Theatre on Chester has delivered over 69 years of quality theatre to the community. The Group prides itself on its excellent reputation, a varied choice of plays and a high standard of production, three times a year.
making theatre
more accessible
and affordable
At The Theatre On Chester, we believe everyone deserves a chance to experience the magic of theatre. We're passionate about making performing arts accessible and affordable, especially for those new to the stage or the audience. Theatre is a safe space where life's stories unfold, and our goal is to foster that profound connection between creators and the community. Bringing a play to life is a collaborative journey for writers, directors, cast, and crew, culminating in that incredible shared moment with the audience during the final bow. If you've always wanted to be part of it, no experience is necessary – everyone is welcome!
The Theatre on Chester was born as Chester St Theatre in 1956 and has been known affectionally as “Chestie” ever since. Life members are individuals who have put more than 10 years into volunteering- albeit set building, directing, committee work or front of house.
Current life members are:
Mary Milton, Carla Moore, Walter Moore, Herb Curtis, Chris Kearney, Luke Wallyn, Janelle Lye, Joan Rodd, John Wiltshire, Mike Brew.
In the 1980’s, the theatre group entered various one act play festivals in Newcastle, Sutherland Shire, Katoomba and most famously Theatrefest in Chatswood. Chestie was a consistent winner in acting, directing, playwriting, and set design categories at all these festivals, building their excellent reputation for high production values.
We are lucky to have a permanent stage in our theatre on which we rehearse and build our sets. Every Saturday, a group of dedicated volunteer builders use the power drills, screw drivers and paint brushes to create our amazing sets. . Other creative individuals are welcome to help out with lighting and sound or stage management. Three times a year, members are asked to volunteer for Front of House activities, which is overseen by a Front of House Manager.
Patrons can become an annual subscriber giving them three plays for the price of two! Subscriptions open late October and are available until end of February. We offer five matinees starting at 5pm and nine 8pm performances.
The Theatre on Chester is centrally located at the corner of Chester and Oxford Streets North Epping and is an easy 5 minutes’ walk from Epping railway station and bus terminal. There are a number of local restaurants and cafés offering a variety of meals to suit all budgets.