Report shows landmark cinema could be saved

REFURBISHING the landmark Schonell Theatre would cost just $15 million, an internal University of Queensland report shows.

Live community and university productions at the Schonell Theatre such as a recent ABBA Night are at risk from plans to demolish the theatre. Pictured: Kristian Fletcher and BB le Buff

REFURBISHING the landmark Schonell Theatre would cost just $15 million, an internal University of Queensland report shows.

State Greens MP for Maiwar, Michael Berkman, who tabled the report in Parliament, said he was deeply concerned by UQ’s plans to knock down the theatre and student union complex.

He said an option to upgrade the existing open-air amphitheatre would not offer a real solution for productions such as the Law Revue and Med Revue.

Another option, to build a new “landmark’’ building, would provide a suitable performance space but there was no clear timeframe and no funding was set aside ­ to build it, he said.

“In recognition of the important role it has played, and continues to play, in the university community, I oppose demolition of the Schonell without a clear plan for a replacement,’’ Mr Berkman said.

Greens MP Michael Berkman. Picture: AAP/Dan Peled

“The demolition should not go ahead without a replacement venue or dedicated funding, and a timeframe for construction of such a facility.’’

“I’ve been contacted by students, community members and alumni who are deeply concerned at the ­potential loss of this space.

“I share these concerns, particularly in circumstances where there appears to be no clear

plan or finding for an equivalent alternative performance space.

“I’m also aware that there has been consideration in recent years of the refurbishment of the Schonell, which might retain much of the heritage and cultural values of the facility.

“The clear feedback I have received from students and the wider university community is that an outdoor space like the natural amphitheatre is not appropriate for many important cultural and performance activities which the Schonell supports.

“In particular, theatrical performances like the Med Revue and Law Revue would

face real difficulties without the Schonell as a venue.

“It appears the new landmark building proposed for the main entry to the university north would provide a performance space to replace the Schonell. However, based on conversations between my office and UQ Properties and Facilities, my understanding is that there is no clear timeframe for delivery of this building, and no funding has been allocated for its construction.’’

A UQ spokesman said the university was “engaging with teaching staff and student representatives on the proposed redevelopmentand the need for a modern performance space’’.

“The 2015 report primarily looked at the refurbishment needed to the Schonell for teaching, not as a performance space,’’ he said.

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“This proposal would have resulted in a compromised performance space and (later) studies have identified major shortcomings in compliance, disability access and facilities at the theatre.

“Refurbishment or redevelopment would be likely to exceed the $12.67m in the 2015 report.

“UQ’s proposed redevelopment of the Student Hub, which encompasses the Schonell Theatre, is a significant investment for the University.

“We are engaging with teaching staff and student representatives on the proposed redevelopment and the need for a modern performance space.

“The proposed redevelopment would be designed to deliver an experience expected from a world-leading university now and into the future.

“The proposed redevelopment plans are being carefully considered as part of a thorough process before a decision on the final configuration is made in the second half of 2019 by our Senate.’’

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