Southern Adelaide residents are applauding – their historic theatre will be saved

The Onkaparinga community is celebrating a $5.3m rescue package for Noarlunga’s Hopgood Theatre.

Noarlunga’s treasured but rundown Hopgood Theatre has been saved by a $5.3m rescue package and change of ownership.

The outlook looked bleak for the 500-seat building that needs updated audio, lighting and furniture to bring it up to scratch.

The Onkaparinga Council on Wednesday decided to take over management and running costs from the state government, which provided the huge cash injection.

The transfer of the theatre will not cost ratepayers.

Community campaigner Harry Dewar, of the acting group Squadron of Fools said the funding would complete everything planned for the 1985-built theatre.

“We are thrilled and it is a big win for the community’s voice,” he said.

TAFE SA had previously owned the premises and Education Minister John Gardner said the funding was an important part of the switch in ownership.

“The Hopgood Theatre is an important asset for southern Adelaide and Fleurieu regions, used by community and touring arts groups as well as many local schools. But the theatre was insufficiently funded for many years under the former government and now requires significant work to bring its facilities up to standard,’’ he said.

Ashley Dunn, Ryan Henshaw, Zepheryn Rosewood and Harry Dewar from acting group Squadron of Fools, at The Hopgood Theatre in Adelaide. Picture; AAP Morgan Sette.

Poor maintenance had meant the theatre was mainly used by many school groups.

Mr Dewar said the original seats were still used in the building, the audio system could not be used by top-tier touring groups and the lighting has to be upgraded to more environmentally friendly LED.

Onkaparinga Councillor Bill Jamieson also praised the funding allocation and new ownership.

“This is a fabulous win for our community who have passionately campaigned for the Hopgood Theatre for many years,’’ he said.

Member for Davenport Steve Murray said the funding was good news for local ratepayers and taxpayers.

“It is a sensible solution that will see the Marshall Liberal government improve this important asset for our community, and then council is obliged to provide its services at a high standard for our residents,” he said.

Member for Black David Speirs also welcomed the announcement.

“Our local schools use the Hopgood Theatre regularly, and they will join theatre-lovers more generally in our community in welcoming this partnership.

“This is another example of the Marshall Liberal government delivering outcomes for our community, while Labor took the south for granted for 16 long years,” he said.

The theatre was named in honour of former (Labor) deputy premier Don Hopgood and his wife Raelene.