Construction underway on Geelong Arts Centre church redevelopment

With access to affordable performance spaces being key to fostering a thriving creative scene, Geelong Arts Centre is strengthening its position as one of Australia’s largest regional performing arts centres with construction underway to transform a former church into a new and affordable live performance venue.

Geelong Arts Centre recently appointed award-winning local builders, Plan Group, to deliver the interior redevelopment project alongside LIMINAL Architecture. Work will include significant structural renovations, acoustic enhancements, and upgrades to create a fit-for-purpose performance space.

Chief Executive and Creative Director, Geelong Arts Centre Rhys Holden shared “we’ve listened to our local musicians and artists, and we know that access to affordable performance spaces is key to fostering a thriving creative scene. This venue will serve as an incubator for live performance, ensuring emerging talent has the space and support needed to develop and showcase their work.”

After years of being concealed behind the former Band of Hope building, the heritage church facade dating back 1857 was restored and revealed as part of the two-staged $180 million redevelopment of Geelong Arts Centre, backed by the Victorian Government.

It will remain a defining feature of the unique venue, set to open next year.

The church redevelopment project has been enabled by the generosity of many donors through Geelong Arts Centre’s The Church Giving Campaign.

In addition to the construction project, funds raised will support essential operational and audio equipment and ensure that Geelong Arts Centre can offer the new venue at affordable rates.

Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks announced the Ryrie Street facility becoming a dedicated space for live music, comedy, theatre, dance and performance and noted “we have been proud to invest in Geelong Arts Centre’s transformation into the largest dedicated regional arts centre in Australia, and an extraordinary creative hub for the Geelong region.

“This transformation was always a partnership with the community, and I welcome the generous donors and supporters who have contributed to The Church Giving Campaign.

“It is wonderful that this historic venue will now help to shape the future of our talented artists and performers.”

Chair, Geelong Performing Arts Trust, Lesley Always added “we are very grateful for the generosity of our philanthropic supporters who have made this milestone possible. Together we share a deep commitment to preserving The Church’s rich history while celebrating its rebirth as a vibrant hub for Geelong’s emerging musical artists.”

For further information and for updates on the redevelopment visit geelongartscentre.org.au

Image. Geelong Arts Centre Church façade at night. Credit: Geelong Arts Centre/Peter Foster