Geelong Performing Arts Centre redevelopment to commence in October

The $38.5 million stage two redevelopment of the Geelong Performing Arts Centre has reportedly received approvals to go ahead, with construction expected to start construction in October of this year.

Aiming to transform the centre of Geelong into a major cultural hub, the redevelopment includes a new building that will provide a new facade and entrance on Geelong’s Ryrie Street, new rehearsal facilities and dance studios, a two-storey foyer, and provision for creative industries offices.

The Geelong Advertiser reported Victorian Planning Minister Richard Wynne as stating that the project “ticks all the boxes”.

He added “it’s going to create jobs, offer up new opportunities for budding performers and add to Geelong’s title as a cultural capital.”

Designed by Hassell, the multi-million dollar upgrade was an election commitment from both Labor and the Liberal-Nationals at the 2014 Victorian Election.

Four companies have been short-listed for the project tender - ADCO Constructions, Built Pty Ltd, Cockram Construction Ltd and Kane Constructions Pty Ltd, with the Victorian Government expected to award the final construction contract in August ahead of the October build.

Since being first opened in 1981, GPAC has provided a popular performance space for local, national and international acts, with more than 50% of events at the centre presented by the Geelong community.

GPAC is Victoria’s only state-owned cultural institution outside of Melbourne, and more than 220,000 people attend performances at the centre each year.

The upcoming redevelopment follows a major overhaul of the 750-seat Playhouse Theatre, with assurances the space will continue to operate with minimal disruption during the rebuild process.

Image: Design for stage two of the Geelong Performing Arts Centre by Hassell. Courtesy of Hassell.

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