Shirley Burke Theatre reopens to applause

The Shirley Burke Theatre in Parkdale, Victoria, has reopened after a $1.7 million facelift designed by Suters Architects.

The refurbishment of the 84 year old theatre included an upgrade of the facade to better reflect the creative activities occurring inside the venue.

Suters Project Leader Michael Hubbard said that the inspiration for the lightbox facade was drawn from art deco and traditional theatre imagery.

Hubbard explained "the visual of the lightbox facade was influenced by classical images of cabaret theatre including spotlights and can-can dancers with fishnet tights and stilettos.

"We worked closely with the Kingston City Council and local user groups to provide a theatre that the whole community can be proud of, and that will inspire talented artists and performers from around the country to bring their work to this bayside suburb and surrounding community."

Other restoration works included the construction of a new bar, kiosk and box office and refurbishment of performance spaces. The upgraded theatre seats 167 people and a new multi use studio space has been added. A street front gallery space is an exciting addition to the building that will host new media works.

Theatre Coordinator Tracey Kean said the response from the local community has been overwhelming, adding "a great team of people have put a lot of passion, thought and hard work into recreating the Shirley Burke Theatre into a truly remarkable venue. The community response reflects that we really did hit the mark."

The project was supported by the City of Kingston and the Victorian Government, through Arts Victoria.

Image of the Shirley Burke Theatre courtesy of Kingston Arts.