In 1977 the founders of this company, Mr. Russell Johnson and the late Mr. Geoffrey Page, approached the Lilydale Council to bring the performing arts to Lilydale and to turn this historic building, which was in such poor condition that it was in danger of being condemned, into the Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre. The foresight of those council members in the 70’s is the foundation for a wonderful performing arts community within Lilydale. Now, decades later, The Lilydale Athenaeum Theatre continues to entertain people from all over Melbourne on a regular basis and has many people through its doors, from the local community, interstate and overseas.