Arts and Entertainment in Hobart
Hobart has a flourishing arts scene covering every imaginable facet of the performing and creative arts.
The centre of Tasmania's arts community is Salamanca Place and its focal point is the historic warehouse complex of the Salamanca Arts Centre, with craft studios and resident artists. The Theatre Royal in Campbell Street is Australia's oldest performing live theatre. Built in 1837, its Regency style is a reminder of a more gracious era. The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery is housed in a collection of historic buildings in Macquarie Street and has an emphasis on Tasmanian Aboriginal and early colonial activities, including the penal system. The Art Gallery component has a fine collection of colonial paintings and hosts travelling exhibitions.
The Maritime Museum, on the corner of Argyle and Davey Streets, is also housed in an historic building. This attraction outlines the maritime history of Tasmania and includes a display about Hobart's whaling history. Hobart is also home to Australia's first legal casino which opened in 1973 at the Wrest Point Hotel.