30 September 2020
The Hon Don Harwin, MP, Minister for the Arts will officially launch the recently completed million dollar renovation project at Griffith Regional Theatre, funded by the NSW Government in conjunction with Griffith City Council, on Thursday, 8 October at 8am.
The Upgrade and Revitalisation of Griffith Regional Theatre project is the most significant upgrade to the Theatre and its facilities since it was opened in 1987. The $1.2million project was funded by the NSW Government – through the Regional Cultural Fund and Clubs NSW Infrastructure Grants, in association with Griffith City Council.
The works consist of four major areas of work:
- Technical upgrades – including a new, state of the art lighting desk and acoustic panelling in the auditorium;
- New air-conditioning in the Burley Griffin Room;
- Upgrades to existing public toilets and dressing rooms, and construction of additional public amenities;
- Renovation of the façade of the building, and construction of a new amphitheatre in the eastern courtyard, with an eye catching entrance statement including bold signage and a powerful mural by local Wiradjuri artist Veronica Collins
The Theatre upgrades not only gave the somewhat dated amenities a makeover, but have also improved the quality of visitor experience and made all areas of the building fully accessible.
Griffith Mayor, Councillor John Dal Broi said, "The upgrade includes striking acoustic panelling in the auditorium which significantly improves sound quality especially for patrons with hearing impairment, as well as fully accessible bathrooms on both levels of the building and in the dressing rooms, which means that all members of the community can participate fully in all aspects of the theatre whether as patrons or performers."
Cr Dal Broi noted, "The striking entrance statement also sends a message about inclusivity and recognition, with Veronica Collins' powerful mural highlighting the continuing presence of the Wiradjuri People as Traditional Owners of the land."
Chair of Council's Cultural Facilities Committee, Cr Mike Neville said, "We now have a modern, world class facility, with attractive, well equipped dressing rooms, which meet the expectations of international and national touring companies, as well as schools and community groups."
Griffith City Councillors, Members of the Cultural Facilities Committee and local Elders will be invited to join the Minister at Griffith Regional Theatre at 8am on Thursday 8October for the unveiling of a plaque commemorating the redevelopment of the Theatre.
