The Joan Sutherland Performing Arts Centre was opened in 1990 with a community celebration and a Gala Concert performance by Dame Joan Sutherland accompanied by Richard Bonynge. The Centre initially housed the Penrith Conservatorium of Music, the Richard Bonynge Concert Hall and the Allan Mullins Studio but in 2005 it was upgraded to include the Q Theatre, extended Conservatorium facilities and a large atrium foyer.

Today The Joan presents the best in music, theatre and dance; with world class performances from artists acclaimed nationally and internationally on the same stages that host community festivals, shows and events. The Penrith Conservatorium of Music provides quality music education to students of all ages and abilities, and Q Theatre provides theatre training to young people aged 5 – 18, and people with a disability, as well as making innovative and community-focused performances, building on the substantial legacy of the Q Theatre Company.