The $140m redevelopment of the Geelong Arts Centre in nearing completion. This is what you can expect when the doors open.
ARIA award winning singer Jessica Mauboy and singer-songwriter Missy Higgins are due to perform in the new venue that fronts Little Malop Street, and contains performing areas which separately seat 850 and 250 people.
Geelong Arts Centre chief executive Joel McGuinness said after the GAC redevelopment it was hoped the venue could run offshoots of the Melbourne Comedy Festival and the Melbourne Fringe Festival to further bolster the city’s art and culture offering.
Artist’s impression of the Geelong Arts Centre redevelopment
“We’re in conversations with those kinds of events that we want them to have a home every year (in Geelong) that helps artists to have a sustainable career.”
Mr McGuinness said the 850-seat venue in the redeveloped section of the GAC could be reconfigured to a 500-seat venue that would make it commercially viable to run concerts out of.
He said the redevelopment would allow performers from the Geelong region to live and work in their home town.
Artist’s impression of the Geelong Arts Centre redevelopment
“What’s unique is you can create (shows) here. We’ve already got studio spaces and the main stages we’ve already commissioning (shows) that get made in Geelong, premiere in Geelong then they tour.
“We had a show that we helped commissioned which toured to 40 different places around Australia.”
Mr McGuinness said: “This milestone in Geelong’s cultural history will see Geelong Arts Centre (GAC) drive national and international arts conversation, and ensure that those from around our region, and the world, can gather, connect, and share their passion for the arts and creativity in Geelong.”
Exterior of the Geelong Arts Centre upgrade. Picture: Brad Fleet
Premier Daniel Andrews, who toured the site this week ahead, said: “This redevelopment has always been a project for the long-term benefit of Geelong – supporting local businesses, showcasing the city’s creativity and creating jobs.”
Premier Daniel Andrews, right, and GAC chief executive Joel McGuinness, right, at Geelong Arts Centre this week. Picture: Brad Fleet
Geelong MP Christine Couzens said: “What better way to mark the end of such a major project for our region than with a major celebration of arts, culture and entertainment.”
Tickets for the opening night go on sale on May 22.
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