Our History

Based in the regional centre of Lismore in the Northern Rivers NSW, NORPA is renowned for presenting a Season of curated and home-grown works that are both challenging and accessible to regional audiences. Increasing access to the performing arts is at the core of NORPA’s artistic program, embracing the diversity of the region, and engaging with the community in relevant and dynamic ways.

NORPA is a not-for-profit organisation with charitable status led by a management committee of local professionals, run by a small team of theatre and venue professionals, and supported by a large group of volunteers. NORPA also manages the Lismore City Hall, on behalf of Lismore City Council, as a venue for hire as well as a space for many different community gatherings.

The Northern Rivers is our physical and spiritual home – we draw inspiration from its landscape, history, people and culture. We are driven to tell our stories in accessible and dynamic ways. Our works challenge perceptions of the performing arts.

They use dance, circus, visual art, live music, surprising locations, audience interaction, and all manner of human and technological skill to tell the story. Our projects are ambitious and take us, and our audiences, to new places.