Audiences will be able to enjoy a new public space and special events in a safe environment
The National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA) will re-open its doors to the public in Canberra on Saturday 1 August, with a new public space, screenings and special events.
The NFSA is designing a new experience called Hive, which will give visitors an opportunity to explore stories about its experts, and the treasures preserved in its collection. The NFSA is also adapting its physical spaces (including signage, enhanced cleaning and hand sanitising stations) and assessing foot traffic, social distancing and event capacity, to ensure the safety of its visitors and staff.
Chief Executive Officer Jan Müller said: 'We are excited to welcome the public back in our building from Saturday 1 August. We want to reassure them that we are following all health and safety guidelines in order to offer an exciting and safe experience. We appreciate your patience. It will be worth the wait as visitors will be able to enjoy our latest experience, Hive, as well as a free daily program of films from the NFSA collection, screenings and special events.
'In the meantime, please remember that the NFSA is always open online; from around Australia and in the comfort of your living room you can binge-watch hours of content from our collection, listen to talks by Australia's best filmmakers, musicians and critics, and join our new NFSA Live online events. We hope to see you soon.'
The events program for August will be available from July, at NFSA.gov.au/events. Our café Biginelli Espresso will also be open to the public, and education programs are set to re-start from August for Term 3. Information about health and safety at the NFSA will be available on our website ahead of the re-opening, so audiences can plan their visit and address any concerns with our staff.
Audiences can explore the NFSA collection at NFSA.gov.au and YouTube. The NFSA has also launched a new series of live-streamed events, including a free screening of Mabo: Life of an Island Man (Friday 29 May); the popular Vinyl Lounge, now virtual and socially distanced (Friday 5 June) and further sessions to be announced.
