Belvoir Theatre is rising from the ashes after a devastating fire destroyed its precious 'library of things' in June. The Sydney-based company lost its storage warehouse, including sets, costumes, and props, but the spirit of resilience and creativity remains strong.
The Fire and Its Aftermath
On the afternoon of 22 June, a fire broke out at Belvoir's storage and production facility in Marrickville, causing extensive damage. Fortunately, no staff were injured, but the company's tools, equipment, and a vast collection of theatrical items were lost. Among the destroyed items were sets for the upcoming production The Jungle and the Sea, forcing the team to rebuild from scratch.
The loss has been deeply felt by the theatre community. Neil Armfield, who led Belvoir for 17 years, described it as 'like your house burning down.' He recalled the plastic-coated wire washing basket that had been borrowed for a show, a symbol of the company's inventive, junkyard aesthetic.
A Community's Loss and Recovery
Belvoir's response has been remarkable. The company quickly rallied to recreate essential elements, and the upcoming remount of The Book of Everything has taken on added poignancy. Armfield, collaborating with Kim Carpenter, brings back a production that celebrates the very spirit of resourcefulness that the fire threatened.
The fire also highlighted the importance of community support. Donations and offers of help poured in from across the arts world, demonstrating the deep affection for Belvoir and its work.

What Was Lost and What's Being Rebuilt
The fire destroyed a diverse array of items, from vintage chairs to handmade props. Below is a comparison of the losses and the recovery efforts:
| Lost Items | Recovery Actions |
|---|---|
| Sets for The Jungle and the Sea | Rebuilt using new materials and designs |
| Costumes and props from decades of shows | Community donations and rental replacements |
| Tools and workshop equipment | Fundraising campaign to replace essential gear |
| Neil Armfield's washing basket | Recreated as a tribute to the company's spirit |
Key Takeaways
- Belvoir Theatre's storage fire destroyed irreplaceable theatrical items but no injuries occurred.
- The company is rebuilding with community support and a renewed focus on creativity.
- The remount of The Book of Everything serves as a symbol of resilience and history.
- Belvoir's junkyard aesthetic and scavenging spirit remain central to its identity.
FAQ
What caused the fire at Belvoir Theatre's warehouse?
The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it broke out on the afternoon of 22 June at the storage and production facility in Marrickville.
How is Belvoir Theatre recovering from the loss?
Belvoir is rebuilding with the help of community donations, rental replacements, and a fundraising campaign. The company is also remounting The Book of Everything as a tribute to its history.
What was the 'library of things' at Belvoir?
The 'library of things' referred to the collection of props, costumes, and sets that Belvoir had accumulated over decades, each with its own story and significance to the company's productions.
Belvoir Theatre's journey from ashes to recovery is a testament to the enduring power of art and community. As the company rebuilds, it carries forward the inventive spirit that has defined it for over three decades.
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