A free concert is being staged from 7.30pm with residents encouraged to fill up the 812-seat theatre.

Booking is essential with those attending needing to call (02) 6043 5610 before 5pm today.

Performers will include pianist Glennis Carter who played at the theatre’s opening 50 years ago.

Other acts on the bill include the Flying Fruit Fly Circus, the Murray Conservatorium Orchestra, Jan Skinner, Albury High School students, The Scots School Albury Pipe Band and Choir, singer Glenn Star, and members of the Regional Academy of Performing Art.

Mayor Kevin Mack said the centre, which was opened by NSW Premier Jack Renshaw, was “the focal point of Albury’s theatre experience”.

“It has built a reputation for offering and attracting they type of performers that would usually only tour metropolitan cities and offering a diverse program of music, dance, theatre and comedy,” Cr Mack said.

“Over the past 50 years we have built a loyal and passionate community of theatre-goers who have helped the Entertainment Centre establish its reputation as Albury’s premier entertainment venue.

“Our success would not have been possible without them and this is their celebration as much as ours.”