Timeworn features of the Canberra Theatre Centre will get a $1.2million upgrade, with further ACT budget funding set aside for a feasibility study of a new Canberra theatre.
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The theatre’s director Bruce Carmichael said before the budget he was concerned about where cuts would be made, and he was glad to see the territory government’s continued commitment to the arts despite pressure to minimise the deficit.
“It shows that the government values the arts and is looking to the future,” he said.
As part of the Economic and Development Directorate’s City to the Lake projects, a $170,000 feasibility study will consider a 4000-square-metre site adjacent to the Canberra Theatre’s playhouse for a new larger theatre space.
“Bigger companies can’t make seasons in Canberra financially viable,” Mr Carmichael said.
He said a theatre with a larger capacity could attract bigger shows that have typically bypassed Canberra.
ACT Economic Development Directorate deputy director-general Dan Stewart said the study would assess the viability of such a venue, and create a concept design for a theatre in the precinct.
“We are looking at what functionality would be required, whether that could be accommodated in that site and what it would ultimately cost,” he said.
“What this work will allow us to do is put a rigorous business case to government.”
Mr Carmichael said budget funds for upgrades would be used this year to maintain heating and cooling systems, and for electrical work and lighting.
“Our building is 50 years old next year and... requires a fair bit of maintenance,” Mr Carmichael said.
“It’s not going to be stuff that is noticed by patrons but it is essential to keep the venue – so much a part of the fabric of the ACT community – up to date, so that we can host the best of national and international companies.”
