Since 1956, the Playhouse Theatre has been 'home' to several professional theatre companies, and first choice as a performance venue for touring drama and dance productions. The Theatre prides itself on a history of showcasing exciting new works from talented Australian playwrights including Jack Davis, Tom Hungerford, Dorothy Hewett and Heather Nimmo, and has presented internationally acclaimed actors including Googie Withers, Frank Thring, Judy Davis and Perth's own Jill Perryman. Each year the Playhouse Theatre hosts productions as part of the Perth International Arts Festival, and at other times presents an eclectic programme of dance and theatre. The Playhouse Theatre is the performance and administration home of the Perth Theatre Company.