About Capitol
Located in Northbridge (the cultural and entertainment precinct of Perth), Capitol is a dedicated live-music venue and nightclub that has become a pillar of Perth’s night scene. It’s an indoor, multi-level club space (often described as a mid-size concert venue) that can accommodate several hundred party-goers on its dance floor, with additional lounge areas and bars on an upper level. Capitol is notable for being purpose-built for concerts and clubs – a rarity in the local scene – meaning its layout and acoustics were designed for live audio. As promoter Jeff Halley has noted, Capitol isn’t a civic hall or pub stage make-shift; it was “built way back to house live entertainment” and has “stood the test of time” with a design that “does sound good” . For context, the original Capitol Theatre (on William St, opened 1929) was an art-nouveau cinema so grand that its demolition in 1968 is now cited as a heritage loss . The modern Capitol club is a completely different building, but it inherits that name and legacy in Perth culture.
Type: Capitol runs as a nightspot and live gig venue. It regularly hosts dance nights and DJ club events (house music, throwback pop nights, goth/industrial parties, etc.) as well as rock/indie concerts. It essentially combines a dedicated concert space and a nightclub under one roof.Capacity: Exact numbers aren’t publicly advertised, but the club is sizable – the two-floor layout can typically hold on the order of ~700 people in standard mode, expandable to a larger crowd if the upper and lower levels are both fully opened. (One venue listing describes it as being able to operate as “a 700 capacity club or a 1200 capacity super club.”)Signature features: Capitol’s main floor is an open, standing dance area in front of a raised stage. A secondary raised balcony/lounge houses bars and seating (notably “black leather lounges and plush red carpeting” ) so attendees can step out of the crowd without leaving the building. There are two main bars (one at ground level and one in the lounge above ) and modern sound and lighting systems built for concert use. Security/ID checkpoints at the entrance and a late-night party atmosphere complete the picture.Historic significance: While the building itself isn’t heritage-listed, it has a colourful history of nightlife. Over the last few decades it was home to famous Perth clubs like Pinocchio’s, Globe, and The Monkey Bar . It’s operated under different names (most recently as “Magnet House” after a 2019 renovation ) but has remained the go-to spot for touring bands and club nights. This continuity makes it a beloved fixture for locals.
Events and Programming
Capitol’s calendar is packed year-round. On any given week one might find an international touring rock or indie band sharing the lineup with local support acts, club DJs spinning house/techno, or themed dance parties. Major foreign and Australian artists (especially in rock, punk, metal and indie) often stop here — over the years Capitol has hosted everyone from The Strokes and Jimmy Eat World to The Vines and Violent Soho . Local hot bands and cover acts are frequent too. Because it’s one of the only mid-size dedicated music halls in Perth, Capitol often serves as the venue for acts that are too big for pubs but too small for arenas. For example, a typical month might see one night of hard rock or punk, another night of electronic dance or hip-hop, and weekend events.
Apart from concerts, Capitol (in tandem with the adjacent Amplifier Bar) runs recurring club nights. For instance, **Death Disco** is a long-running weekly Saturday-night event drawing a big crowd of indie and electronic music fans . Another staple is a 2000s/retro chart dance night (often on Fridays) with DJs spinning pop hits (“Retro Mash” is one such theme night ). Wednesday nights commonly feature local bands or DJs, too. Public listings often describe the venue simply as “Amplifier Capitol” since the Amplifier Bar (next door) and Capitol club share a complex; Capitol is often called the “big brother” of Amplifier , meaning the two venues might share acts or alternate opening hours.
Typical ticket prices vary by event. Club nights at Capitol often have modest cover charges (or even free entry early on) – for example, media reports note doors opening at 10pm, with entry free before 11pm and about $10 thereafter on most nights, and a Saturday cover around $10 (or $15 after 11pm) . Concerts have higher prices reflecting the act: in Perth these tend to run anywhere from ~$20 for simple local gigs up to $50 or more for bigger touring bands. The venue has no set selling tiers (no VIP seats to reserve) – nearly all events are general admission, sometimes with a raised area at the back for a different view. Check the Capitol/Amplifier event listings and local promoters for specifics on each show. Weekend events can sell out, so it’s often wise to get tickets early if the artist or DJ is popular.
Tickets and Booking
How to buy: Smaller club nights (like themed dances or DJ sets) usually allow walk-up entry at the door (just bring cash or card). Bigger concerts will be listed through local promoters or online ticketing outlets. The venue itself doesn’t have a main “box office” building – instead tickets are sold via authorized sellers (for example, via Perth event websites or venues). Keep an eye on announcements on local event sites, music blogs or social media. When in doubt, you can often call the venue’s phone line or email (contact info is on Capitol’s site) to confirm ticket sources.When they go on sale: A typical practice is that tickets for big acts go on sale weeks or even months in advance, while club-night schedules are more ad-hoc. For high-demand concerts, promoters sometimes offer early “presales” for subscribers or fan clubs, followed by general sale dates. Follow Capitol’s official social channels and local listings to know sale dates.Pricing tiers: Tickets are generally one-price (general admission standing). Some special events might have separate front-row “premium” tickets, but most gigs are on a first-come basis with one price. As mentioned, club cover charges are often in the $10–15 range for weekend nights , while local rock/indie gigs might be $20–35 and international acts $40+. Children and seniors rarely have discounts at this sort of venue (it’s usually age 18+ events). Alert: because it’s primarily a nightclub, it’s technically licensed 18+. Always check the age requirement on each event notice.Presales and door sales: If tickets are not sold out, the venue generally allows “door sales” on the night of the event (cash or card). However, for very popular shows the door may close once the venue is full. As a rule, early-bird or presale tickets can be cheaper, so it’s smart to grab any offer quickly. Visitors often form a line before doors open (commonly around the advertised start time, e.g. 7pm or 10pm depending on the show). Arrive early if you want better placement on the floor or if you plan to buy at the door.Checking availability: Capitol does not list all its shows on a single official ticket platform (since club nights are mixed with concerts). The best approach is to search by event name (Band/club night + “Capitol, Perth”) or check the Amplifier/Capitol event calendars, to confirm show details. We do not link specific ticket sellers here, but major shows will appear on Perth event websites, newspapers or community boards. For very last-minute checks, you could try calling the door to see if tickets remain closer to showtime (though they may be busy).
Seating and Layout
The club is primarily a standing-room venue. The main custom-built hall has an open floor with a raised stage at one end. This means there are no fixed seats in front; patrons generally spread out across the dancefloor. Along the rear wall and sides (as well as on an upstairs tier) there is some seating. In fact, Capitol’s upper lounge is furnished with couches and stools – “the lounge area [is] equipped with black leather lounges and plush red carpeting” – providing spots to sit or lean. These areas have a slightly elevated view down onto the floor.
General Admission: Almost all events use general admission. For best views at concerts you’ll want to get near the stage early, as it can fill up. At club nights the crowd tends to dance and mill about freely, so shapes and vantage can change. Taller people often gather against the stage or in the rear corners.Bars and Aisles: There are two big bars (one at floor level, another upstairs) which means the main floor has an aisle near the bar, but otherwise the space is quite open. There are also the two main entrance/exit gates on floor level. Sightlines are generally good from most of the hall, since the stage is raised and there are no central pillars. That noted, very tall sound speakers and trusses at front can slightly obscure extreme side angles.Acoustics: Sound quality is often praised at Capitol. The venue is known for strong PA systems and clear mixes – as one booking agent remarked, Capitol is “still one of the best venues” to see gigs . The space is insulated from road noise, and the built-in rigging (speakers, subwoofers, etc.) is configured for concerts. Of course, at extremely high volumes (as in hard rock or metal shows) it will feel very loud anywhere, so earplugs are recommended if you’re sensitive.Areas to Avoid: Since it’s basically a flat floor, areas immediately behind tall groups or speaker stacks can have muffled sound. The absolute sides (near stage-left or stage-right) might have slightly skewed views. Also note that once the floor crowd is dense, mobility is limited – some people prefer hanging near the back or side walls for a quick exit or a quieter corner.
Getting There and Parking
Capitol’s address is 393 Murray Street, Perth WA , in the heart of Northbridge. The venue faces on to Murray St, but entrance is actually found down a lane between Murray and Murray Street East (near the Rialto or King St) .
By Train: The closest train station is Perth Station (Elizabeth Quay) on the north edge of the CBD, roughly 800m away (a 10-minute walk). Trains on the Joondalup, Mandurah, Midland and Fremantle lines all stop at Elizabeth Quay/Perth Station. From there it’s a flat walk up Queen St to Murray, or via the underpass to King St and walk back.By Bus: Numerous Transperth buses stop in the vicinity. The Elizabeth Quay Bus Station (at the bottom of William St) is a major hub; many buses also run along Wellington St (a block south) or King St. If you see routes like the 960 or 930X, they stop at Elizabeth Quay or the Perth Busport. Perth has a “Free Transit Zone” for central buses – if your trip starts and ends within this zone (which covers much of the CBD and Northbridge) the ride is free. You can confirm bus routes via the Transperth site or real-time apps for specifics to Murray St.Drop-off/Rideshare: There’s no designated official drop-off bay, but a practical spot is on King Street (alongside the lively Chinatown area) or on Murray Street near the small laneway entrance. Taxis/Uber can usually come to King St or Roe St. The laneway itself is narrow, so vehicles might pause briefly at the corner. After a show, rideshare pickup can be tricky in the crowds; be prepared for a short wait or move a block away if it’s busy.Driving & Parking: If you drive, note that on-street parking in Northbridge is limited and often time-restricted or metered. There are parking lots and garages in the CBD a few blocks back (such as multi-storey car parks near Wellington St or Roe St). The Perth Concert Hall parking is on nearby Lake St (though it has been under construction or closure at times ). Because of event traffic and drink-driving laws, most visitors prefer public transport or cabs. If you do park nearby, always check the City of Perth signage for hours and fees.
Inside the Venue
When you arrive, there will typically be a queue and security check at the door (especially on busy nights). Capitol enforces photo ID for alcohol, as required by Western Australian law (their license notes “it is an offence to sell liquor to anyone under 18” ). You should expect to show a valid driver’s licence or passport to prove your age. Bags and tickets may be scanned or inspected. The dress code is casual (clubwear), but avoid anything offensive or containing illegal references, as staff may refuse entry on grounds of decency or safety. Once inside, you’re in a darkened club atmosphere: loud music, dynamic lighting, and a packed dancefloor if it’s a popular night.
Security & Rules: Expect friendly but firm door staff. Common restrictions: no outside alcohol or food, no weapons or illicit substances (drugs are prohibited by law). Smoking is not allowed inside (WA law bans indoor smoking at venues), but there is usually a small open-air foyer or back-alley smoking area out a separate door. Photography rules vary by event; many concerts allow normal camera phones (no flash), but professional cameras might need a pass. If in doubt, assume no.
Atmosphere: The crowd vibe changes by event. For a rock gig you’ll be in standing-room front-of-stage; for a DJ night the floor becomes a dance party. In either case the sound is typically loud (bring ear protection if needed). staff often slide open a separater door to the next-door Amplifier if the crowd spills over (especially after midnight) , so the night can flow between both spaces smoothly. The bar music will keep playing in the lounge upstairs if you go take a breather.Bars & Food: There are two staffed bars serving beer, spirits and soft drinks. Expect prices similar to other city venues (around $10–12 for beer/cocktail as of 2023). Capitol does not have a kitchen or food menu – it’s purely a drinking/dancing crowd. (If you need food, eat beforehand or step next door to Amplifier during the show’s break; sometimes the next-door venue or nearby shops sell snacks late at night.)Facilities: Restrooms (male/female) are located off the main hall; line-ups can form during intermissions at shows. There is usually at least one unisex accessible toilet. There’s no public Wi-Fi – cell reception can be spotty in crowded events. The venue may have a small coat-check area or lost-property box, but it’s modest (only use if needed). Keep personal valuables secure; as in any club, pockets can get picked in a dense crowd.Connectivity: If you need phone/tablet access, know that data service can be degraded inside. Plan meeting points with friends in advance (e.g. near the stairs or by the bar) in case you get separated. Many phone recharges are available nearby (501 Queen Street Arcade has outlets), but mid-show you’ll be locked down.
Nearby Amenities
There’s no shortage of pre- or post-event options around Capitol, given its central location. Northbridge (especially around King and William Streets) is Perth’s dining and nightlife hub. For pre-show meals, you’ll find everything from casual cafes and Asian eateries to pizza bars and upscale restaurants within walking distance. Popular nearby choices include the Chinatown food court (Roe St/William St) for quick noodles or dumplings, Japanese sushi and ramen shops on James St, Middle Eastern kebab shops on Murray St, or gastropubs along William St (Broadsheet and TripAdvisor list many options). Most places stay open until 9–10pm, so arriving 1–2 hours before a late show gives you a good buffer to eat.
Northbridge is also packed with bars, so after Capitol many crowds spill over to late-night venues. The Temperance Bar and Sneaky Tony’s on William St, the Brass Monkey or Izakaya on Barrack, and rooftop bars around Milligan St stay open into the early hours. These are great for post-show drinks or chats, and often have relaxed dress codes. Some offer late-night food (burgers or pies) if you’re hungry again. If you’re staying overnight, note that hotels like the Rendezvous or the Adnate are only a few blocks away, as are several CBD hotels (Novotel, Ibis Styles) reachable by a short walk across the park. When planning your night, be aware that Perth’s public transit after midnight is limited – the last trains depart around midnight and buses run on a reduced “Nightrider” schedule. Many people simply call a taxi or book a ride-share (Uber/Lyft) from a quiet street corner when the show ends.
In summary: Capitol is embedded in a walkable, lively neighbourhood full of restaurants, bars, cafés and hotels. Whether you want dinner before a gig or a place to party until dawn, you’ll have plenty of nearby choices. As one local site notes, Capitol has become part of “the fabric of the city,” with the adjacent Amplifier and other Northbridge venues keeping the party going .
What Makes This Venue Special
Capitol stands out because it takes live music seriously within Perth’s nightlife. It isn’t a secondary stage or a renovated pub; it’s a purpose-built concert club that can cater to touring acts with full production needs. As promoter Jeff Halley put it, Perth “doesn’t really have a proper mid-level concert club” – and Capitol fills that void . Twin-level design, solid acoustics and professional lighting mean that shows here feel larger and more polished than a pub gig but more intimate than an arena. Many artists and audiences fondly recall Capitol’s atmosphere: one media profile called it “one of the best venues” in the country for live acts . It’s also beloved for its variety: you might see an indie rock show one night, a DJ/go-go performance the next, and a punk reunion on Friday. That versatility and continuity (it has hosted local legends like The Vines and international stars alike) gives it a storied reputation.
The venue’s history adds to its character. Longtime Perth music fans will remember the classic Capitol Theatre (William St) as one of the city’s grand movie palaces; its iconic chandelier now hangs in Melbourne’s Princess Theatre after being rescued . Modern Capitol carries on the name in spirit. In fact, cinema historians write that the old Capitol’s décor “contained the essence of real art” – while that vanished in demolition, the current Capitol lives on as a beloved creative space. New rebuilds also underscore this legacy. During the 2019-20 reno, news reports noted that “live music and clubbing have always been at the forefront of that space” , and that the owners were aiming to keep it at the cutting edge. The promise of a “new-look” Capitol (dessigned to be even more sound-friendly and spacious) has only increased its mystique.
Culturally, Capitol is a local institution. It’s the kind of place where Perth bands often get their biggest hometown shows, and overseas artists get a surprisingly dedicated crowd on the other side of the country. For Perthites, a great night at Capitol (for example, dancing at a sold-out DJ party or moshing at a beloved band’s set) often becomes a cherished memory. This blend of heritage name, architectural focus on sound, and a track record of legendary performances makes Capitol special to both audiences and performers alike. In short: Capitol is where Perth partygoers go for a real concert-club experience – something that many other cities take for granted, but Perthers eagerly support here.
Visitor Tips and Information
ID and Age: Carry valid ID (drivers licence, photo card or passport). Perth venues strictly enforce the 18+ drinking law . Even if an event is listed all-ages, an ID will be checked.Door Times: Confirm the advertised doors/opening time. Often local bands or DJs start around 8pm and headline around 10pm. For nightclubs, doors might open 9–10pm. Lines can form early, so arrive a little ahead if you want a good spot.Dress Code: Casual club attire is fine. You don’t need to overdress, but avoid flip-flops or rips. If it’s a themed or fancy dress night, the event poster will mention it. Generally, a neat casual look (jeans and a nice shirt) keeps you safe through any bouncer.Bags and Belongings: No large backpacks or outside food/drinks. Small crossbody bags or wallets are usually fine. Valuables should be kept on your person. If you have a big coat, check if there’s a coat check (usually for a small fee) – ask staff, but do not leave valuables there inadvertently.Smoking: You cannot smoke indoors. If you need a cigarette, there is a small outdoor area (weather permitting) - ask at the bar where the nearest exit is. Otherwise you can step outside to the street.Accessibility: The official venue listing notes “Access via Laneway” , which means the entrance is through a side alley. This can be a bit tight or stepped. There is no elevator – the main level and upper bar are reached by stairs. If you have mobility needs, consider contacting Capitol ahead of time. (They have at least one accessible restroom on the main floor, but seating and stage areas may not be wheelchair friendly.)Best Spots to Watch: If you want to be in the thick of it (especially for concerts), try to get close to the stage. By contrast, for more space you might hang against the back wall or on the upper balcony. There are no obstructed-view seats, but bear in mind that giant speakers and rigs hang over the front-of-stage area – adjust slightly left/right of them if possible.Acoustics and Hearing: The sound is pumped up strong. Earplugs are recommended for long exposure. If you notice ear ringing after a show, that’s normal at Capitol-level decibels. Also, floor loads (body heat and vibration) can make the space feel hot – dress in layers.Phone and Cash: ATMs are not inside, so bring enough cash for cover charge and drinks (though bars usually accept card too). Cell reception in nightclubs can be patchy, so set meeting plans before entering. The venue itself does not offer Wi-Fi.Photography: Generally, smartphone cameras without flash are tolerated. Avoid using flash or recording video of performers unless explicitly allowed. If in doubt, check with staff or refer to event rules online.Re-entry: Typically, you are given a wristband or hand stamp when you enter. This will let you step out for a smoke or quick errand and return without a new cover charge. Make sure you receive it before you pay and keep it on securely.Behaviour: This is a popular venue, so be respectful. Dancing is expected; moshing/concert pushing is normal at rock gigs, but also avoid aggressive behaviour. Security enforces common-sense rules (no glass throwing, no unwanted crowd-surfing, etc.). If you keep a cool head and go with the flow, you’ll have a fun night. Remember that staff want everyone to enjoy the show safely.Arrival Tip: Check if your event has assigned queue or separate “guest list” policies. Often, locals just show up and queue in the single line. If you plan to see a local opener, ice out the front. If it’s a big national act, the line can wrap around; don’t get caught late or locked out.Exit Tip: After the show, Capitol/Amplifier can be very crowded near the exit. It helps to drift toward a side exit early or wait in the lounge upstairs for a bit. Remember to watch your steps when exiting the dark dance floor.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capacity of Capitol in Perth?
Capitol doesn’t officially publish a number, but industry sources indicate it runs around a few hundred to roughly a thousand people depending on layout. It operates as a ~700-capacity club in normal mode, expandable to around 1200 when both floors are used. In practice, think of it as a mid-sized venue where you’ll find hundreds of fans for big shows.
How do I get tickets for a show at Capitol?
Tickets are sold via the event promoter or official ticketing outlets. Large concerts are announced with advance dates, and you can buy online or phone. Club nights often allow pay-at-door. The safest approach is to find the event listing (via the Capitol Facebook or events calendar) and use the stated sales channel. For sold-out events, check if a limited door sale or guestlist spot is offered. Avoid unauthorized scalpers.
Where is the Capitol venue located?
Capitol is at 393 Murray Street, in Perth’s Northbridge district . The front entrance is actually down a short laneway that runs behind the Murray Street shops (look for the Capitol/Amplifier signs). It’s just east of the city centre, within walking distance from Perth station and bus stops.
Is there parking available near Capitol?
Street parking is limited and often paid in Northbridge, so most visitors use public transport or rideshare. Paid car parks exist a few blocks away (around Perth Concert Hall or the CBD), but prices are high on weekend nights. If you drive, arrive early to find metered spots on nearby streets, and always check parking signs for restrictions. Alternatively, taxi/Uber drop-offs on nearby King St are common.
Which public transport stops at Capitol?
Capitol is in the heart of Perth’s free transit zone. The nearest train stations are Perth (Elizabeth Quay) and Claisebrook (~800m away). Major bus stops on Wellington St and King St are just a few minutes’ walk. Routes that serve Elizabeth Quay Busport or the Perth Busport (e.g. buses heading north via Beaufort St) all get you within a short walk. Late at night, Perth also has Nightrider bus routes and taxis/Ubers readily available.
What should I wear to a show at Capitol?
Dress is casual clubwear. Jeans and a shirt or T-shirt are typical. Nightclub rules usually forbid thongs or any footwear that could break glass, so wear closed shoes. In winter you can layer a jacket (or check if coat-check is available). If it’s a theme event, the promoter’s ads will note it; otherwise just wear whatever you’d be comfortable dancing in.
Are there seats at Capitol?
There are a few lounge seats and bar stools upstairs, but essentially Capitol is standing-room. Most people stand on the dance floor; seating is only along the back wall and in the mezzanine lounge. There is no balcony over the stage or numbered seating – all concert tickets are general admission.
What time do doors open at Capitol?
Door times vary by event. For evening concerts, doors often open around 7–8pm with main acts at 9–10pm. For late-night dance parties, expect doors around 9–10pm. The venue’s event listing or promo flyer will specify the door time. Arrive a little early (20–30 minutes) especially on busy nights – it can take that long just to get through the queue and security.
Is Capitol wheelchair accessible?
Unfortunately it is not fully wheelchair accessible. The main entry is via a side laneway , which has steps or uneven flooring. Once inside, access to the raised areas requires stairs. There is at least one accessible toilet stall, but patrons in wheelchairs cannot access the stage or balcony areas. If you require accommodations, contact the venue in advance – staff may be able to provide assistance or ensure a spot near entry.
Can I bring a bag or food into the venue?
No outside food or drink is permitted. Small bags or purses are usually fine, but expect security to pat you down or check larger bags/coats at entry. The venue will not store large items. Once inside you can purchase beverages at the bars. If you have special needs (e.g. baby formula, medical supplies), be sure to inform staff before entering so they can advise.
What is “Death Disco” at Capitol?
“Death Disco” is Capitol’s weekly goth/industrial/alternative dance night. Every Saturday the club transforms into a darkwave/techno party, and fans of underground electronic music flock there. It’s been running for years and is renowned for its intense beats and all-night dancing . If your music taste runs to heavy synth and industrial vibes, Death Disco on Saturdays is the signature night to experience.
Can I leave and re-enter the venue?
Yes. When you enter, the staff will usually stamp or wrist-band you. This allows a quick exit (for smoking or a short break) and then return without paying again. However, keep track of time – if it’s late and the venue is packed, re-entry might require showing your stamp and sometimes is monitored. Don’t discard your stamp or wristband until you’ve finished the night.
Is Capitol open every night of the week?
No – Capitol (as the music club) is not a nightly bar. As of the latest info, it is typically open Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays . On other nights, the connected venue (Amplifier) or other bars may run shows. Always check the official events calendar: if Capitol isn’t hosting, you’ll see “No event” listed for that date.
What happened to Magnet House, and how is it related?
“Magnet House” was the name given to Capitol after its 2020 renovation. For a time, the club rebranded under that name (and sometimes as “Maggie’s”). However, for event listings it’s often still called Capitol. In short: it’s the same venue, just briefly renamed. If you see a 2020-2024 event saying “Magnet House,” that was Capitol under a different name. The venue’s ownership and license (Club Capitol Pty Ltd) remained the same .
Does Capitol have a food menu or kitchen?
No, Capitol does not serve food. It is strictly a bar and club. Only drinks are sold (beer, wine, spirits, soft drinks). If you arrive hungry, you will need to eat beforehand or step out to a nearby restaurant during any breaks. Some patrons grab a quick bite at one of the many Northbridge eateries (like kebab shops or cafés) before heading in.
What are the best places to sit or stand inside Capitol?
For an immersive experience, stand up front near the stage (especially during concerts). For a more relaxed view, step back to the edges of the floor or to the upstairs lounge – you’ll sit on couches or stools there . The lounge overlooks the main hall, so you still see the stage from a slight elevation. Avoid standing directly in front of the massive speakers (stage left/right) if you can, as they can block sightlines a bit. Ultimately, where you end up depends on whether you want to dance or watch comfortably.
What happened to the Capitol after January 2025?
Capitol temporarily closed on January 1, 2025 for a major renovation . Reports say it will reopen around March 2025 with upgrades (better sightlines, sound system, etc.). Until the grand re-opening (likely under a renewed design), live events have been shifted to neighbor venues (Amplifier/others). The venue owners have confirmed Capitol will “rise again” after the make-over, keeping live music at its core .
Is Capitol the same as Perth’s Capitol Theatre?
No. Perth’s original Capitol Theatre was a 1929 Art Nouveau cinema on central William St (now demolished) . That building is long gone. Today’s Capitol is a different venue in Northbridge focused on live music and nightlife. The two share only a name and a place in Perth’s entertainment history.
Are there any food or drink deals during events?
Occasionally, special pricing or happy-hour deals might be offered (for example, discounted drinks before 10pm on busier nights), but there is no standard promotion advertised. The club’s main strategy is to set a fixed entry fee and sell drinks at normal rates. If you want value, arriving early in the night or mid-week (when cover is low or free) can stretch your budget. Otherwise, expect standard nightclub drink prices.
How does Capitol compare to other live venues in Perth?
Capitol is one of Perth’s premier *intimate* concert venues. It’s larger than a pub or small bar stage but far smaller than Perth Arena (15,000-cap). Compared to Perth’s large theatres (MCEC, Perth Concert Hall), Capitol is ‘club level’ — closer to The Astor in Melbourne or The Metro in Sydney. In Northbridge today, it sits above pub stages and below arena shows. It’s unique in Perth for offering big-name acts in a dance-club environment: a crowd can see international touring bands up close (as they would in a medium under-18 mediate). For live-music fans seeking that focus on bands + club sound system, Capitol is unmatched locally.
Is there an official seating map or tour of Capitol?
Not really. Capitol’s layout is straightforward: an open main dancefloor in front of the stage, and a raised lounge with seating at the back of the hall. There is no theatre-style seating chart. For orientation, think “flat-floor club with a balcony area.” If you want a physical view, attending a club night and looking around is the best way to see it.
Can I book Capitol for a private event or corporate function?
Capitol is generally operated as a public nightclub/concert venue, not a private function space. However, the booking team (see official contact details) might consider special hires if your event fits their needs (e.g. a closed-circuit concert screening or some corporate party). Keep in mind it will still be run as a nightclub setting. Any private bookings would likely follow their standard noise and license constraints, and usually require arranging through the venue managers well in advance.
How can I stay updated on upcoming shows at Capitol?
The best way is to check the Capitol or Amplifier social media pages and local event sites regularly. They usually post weekly gig listings. Because Capitol often shares acts with the next-door Amplifier, be sure to follow both. Some local music guides (Perth Indie, TheWest gig guide, etc.) also list shows at Capitol. Signing up for an email list (if available) or following promoters who frequently book Capitol will keep you informed. Official announcements show the date, age limit, and ticket link when each event goes on sale.
Does Capitol host any special recurring nights or festivals?
Yes. In addition to Death Disco (Saturdays) and Retro Mash (Fridays) mentioned above, Capitol sometimes hosts annual events like New Year’s Eve parties or local music showcases. Around Halloween, themed parties are common. It’s also a stop for touring festival acts (on festival tours). Because its focus is live music, it doesn’t run weekly acoustic or jazz nights. Instead, look out for seasonal series (e.g. summer dance series) which are advertised as special events.
