Listed on the Queensland Heritage Register, the Thomas Dixon Centre is an iconic West End building recently redeveloped into a home for the state’s ballet company, Queensland Ballet. Originally commissioned by Thomas Dixon in 1908 to house a shoe and boot factory and designed by prominent Queensland architect Richard Gailey, the building encompasses its original Georgian Revival-style design and is a rare surviving example of an early twentieth century industrial factory in West End.
The significance of the building is enhanced by the incorporation of unusually decorative features for a building of its type, and its heritage component has been fully restored to its original grandeur. Following the 2022 refurbishment, the innovative design combining old and new now features six dance studios, a 350-seat theatre, production and costume workshops, stunning public art, and a rooftop terrace.
Queensland Ballet’s design objective was to create a cultural hub for community, and a landmark performing arts destination. In rejuvenating the Thomas Dixon Centre, the Company paid tribute to the culture, industry, and art which had previously been created on the site, as it proudly ushers in a future of expanded artistic creation, vision, and community connection. Just as Thomas Dixon did.
The events listed below require ticket bookings. Please follow the links provided for more details and to secure your spot!
SATURDAY 13 JULY
Guided Building Tours:
9:00am – 10:30am
11:00am – 12:30pm
1:00pm – 2:30pm – Auslan tour
3.00pm – 4.30pm
Queensland Ballet Company Class on Stage Viewing:
10.00 am – 11.30 am
Kurilpa Futures Historic Walks:
9.45am – 12.00pm – Tour starting at the New Farm ferry stop, includes a guided ferry ride to West End and a West End historic walk, ending at the Thomas Dixon Centre.
1.30pm – 2.30pm – Tour starting and ending at the Thomas Dixon Centre.
In Conversation with Judy Watson & Jo Wooley. Stories behind the Talbot Theatre carpet design:
4.00pm – 5.00pm
SUNDAY 14 JULY
Sundown meditation on the Kite Terrace
5.00pm – 6.00pm
Tour Information
Frequency of Guided Tours: SATURDAY 13 JULY: Guided tours at 9.00, 11.00, 1.00pm (Fully Auslan Interpreted tour), 3.00pm
Difference in guided tours for Saturday and Sunday:On Sunday the building will be open for free roaming only.
Tour Tips
Register at the building on arrival
Additional Activities
Workshops/talks, Musical performances, Food & Beverage
Dress Requirements
No heels
Wheelchair access
Yes
Is Heritage listed
Yes
Awards
Recent Architectural or Engineering Awards: 2023 Australian Institute of Architects State Awards including: - The Harry Marks Award for Sustainable Architecture - The State Award for Heritage Architecture - The State Award for Public Architecture - The COLORBOND® Award for Steel Architecture
Environment Accreditation: Thomas Dixon Centre is pursuing the International WELL Building Standard Certification.