West Gippsland Arts Centre is back and better than ever!
First published in our 15 November 2018 print edition – get your copy free today!
The iconic Warragul location was closed for around 20 months for major renovation works.
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Through adding a new balcony seating level, the venue’s capacity has increased from 496 seats to 760.
Compliance with modern accessibility standards was also an important goal, and the building now features a lift to make changing floors easier and safer.
And then we have the stunning aesthetic makeover! Modern wood feature walls and motifs, floor-to-ceiling windows, and plenty of light connect inside and outside spaces almost seamlessly. Oh, and the view over Civic Park from the third storey of the public gallery is pretty neat too. (There’s a public baby grand piano on that third floor too!)
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The wood used in the building isn’t all just to look good. The acoustics of the theatre have reportedly warmed greatly thanks to new panelling, and sound reflective features enable everyone in the larger theatre to have a good experience.
Baw Baw mayor Mikaela Power was at the opening concert, a performance by the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra on 1 November.
“It was fantastic,” Cr Power said.
“I was at the front and it was an amazing experience, but I’ve also talked to lots of people who sat in other parts of the theatre and they loved it too.
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New outdoor spaces which link well with the inside have also been a hit, but you don’t have to take our word for it. The building’s reopening will be celebrated with a huge festival this Saturday 17 November from 9am.
Head to wgac.com.au for details.
Photos: William PJ Kulich
Great photos, Will! You really capture the vibe. But in the end, the real impact is going to be what we are able to produce in the venue. Looking forward to it!