Empire Theatre’s Armitage Centre celebrates 10th anniversary

A regional theatre championing youth arts has celebrated its tenth anniversary following the sad passing of its namesake benefactor.

Empire Theatre in Toowoomba, Qld. Picture: LucyRC Photography

A renowned regional theatre named in honour of a beloved Toowoomba benefactor has celebrated ten years in the community.

Theatre patrons have reflected on the lasting impact of the Armitage Centre, a versatile, mid-sized black box theatre, ten years on from its grand opening at the Empire Theatre precinct.

“The idea was born as a project to celebrate the centenary of the opening of the very first Empire Theatre,” former Empire Foundation chair Sheena Liley said.

The Armitage Centre opening at the Empire Theatre precinct in Toowoomba QLD September 8, 2014. Picture: LucyRC Photography

With 350 retractable seats and state of the art sound and light production, the space is designed to suit an array of artistic expressions.

“It was always community focused from the very start,” Ms Liley said.

“Everybody who worked on the project was totally committed to the vision which was that it would be a home for youth arts, for community productions and functions.”

A grassroots fundraiser, chaired by the late philanthropist Clive Armitage, ignited community excitement, quickly gathering donations in the four years before its opening on September 8, 2014.

Conchita Armitage and Clive Armitage attending the official opening of The Armitage Centre at the Empire Theatre in Toowoomba, Queensland. Picture: Bev Lacey

“Funds largely came from the most wonderful outpouring of support and donations from our local and regional community,” Ms Liley said.

“So many people gave so generously, businesses and individuals.”

The centre was named in honour of Mr Armitage and wife Conchita and their undying support for regional arts.

“Both he and mum loved the theatre but it was more than just a space, it was an opportunity to bring entertainment in all its different forms back to Toowoomba,” daughter Heidi Ward said.

“It was an important legacy that Mum and Dad felt they had the opportunity to provide and be involved in.

“We’re very proud.”

Construction of the Armitage Centre at the Empire Theatre precinct in Toowoomba, Qld. Picture: The Empire Theatre

Today the flexible theatre hosts the likes of world-renowned comedian Josh Thomas, Queensland’s Camerata chamber orchestra and up and coming stars of the Toowoomba junior and senior IMPACT ensembles.

“We’ve had some absolutely incredible names and a wonderful variety of performances,” Empire general manager Giuliana Bonel said.

Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull address crowd in the Armitage Centre in 2018. Picture: The Empire Theatres

“The venue does mean a lot to this community and especially young people.

“There are so many young people whose lives have been impacted by our youth arts program; it has built confidence for these young people and a lot have gone on to do incredible things with the skills they’ve learnt.

“Without the centre, it just wouldn’t have happened.”

Looking to the future, Ms Bonel said she was certain the centre would continue to entice world-class performers to the regional stage.

“It’s very much about promoting the venue’s versatility, what it can provide to the community and for touring performers,” Ms Bonel said.

“I can’t wait to see the venue really grow. We’re only at the very beginning.”