$140m cultural, dining precinct plans for Geelong Arts Centre
Geelong Arts Centre will be transformed into must-visit cultural and dining precinct under a $140m redevelopment due to be complete in two years. SEE INSIDE
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Geelong Arts Centre will be transformed into must-visit cultural and dining precinct under a $140m redevelopment due to be complete in two years.
Bold new designs to be unveiled by the state government on Friday reveal a modern design showcasing the region’s strong and continuing First Nations culture, its proximity to the ocean, and the local history of circus and theatre.
The new facility will include a 500-seat theatre that expands to an 800-person capacity in live gig mode, as well as a hybrid theatre with more than 250 seats connected to the Little Malop St plaza.
The design features a connection portal with interactive lighting that joins it with the nearby Ryrie St building, as well as bars and alfresco dining for locals and visitors.
Geelong’s history will be expressed in the Lascelles wool store-inspired moulded concrete walls and the design features a curtain shaped facade inspired by Victoria’s early history of performance, theatre and circus tents.
Architects Ashton Raggatt McDougall (ARM) worked with the Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation as co-designers to weave in stories of the lands, waters and skies as well as local ochres, jarosites from Bells Beach and greenstone found at Dog Rocks in Batesford.
ARM founding director Ian McDougall said the design was flexible and encourage creative expression from all cultural groups in Geelong.
“Its interplay of texture and colour impart a curious and dynamic atmosphere, inspiring people to express their individuality in connection to the rest of society,” he said.
Geelong Arts Centre’s chief executive officer and creative director Joel McGuinness said the development would transform Geelong’s cultural precinct.
“This design delivers on our bold vision, it embraces the cultural precinct, it challenges the idea of a black box theatre that turns their back on the world,” he said.
“Using the principles of universal design, this outcome is welcoming, inclusive, inspires joy, facilitates creativity and encourages people to be part of our creative community.”
Premier Daniel Andrew said the development would help the city recover from the coronavirus pandemic.
The project is expected to generate 600 construction jobs and provide opportunities for local apprentices.
“The new Arts Centre will bring tourists and locals alike back to the heart of Geelong, driving the city’s recovery as our state reopens and rebuilds,” Mr Andrews said.
The project is being delivered by a partnership between the Geelong Arts Centre, Creative Victoria, Development Victoria and Lendlease and is due to be completed by 2023.
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Originally published as $140m cultural, dining precinct plans for Geelong Arts Centre
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