The Geelong Arts Centre formerly known as GPAC has just completed another stage in their exciting redevelopment and we were lucky enough to take a look.
Stage 2’s budget of $38.5 million dollars allowed the centre to be opened up to Ryrie Street with a confronting and striking translucent white six story box fronting the street. The new facilities have brought new and improved accessibility for guests, new studios and rehearsal spaces and a stunning entrance to the Playhouse Theatre. A historic sandstone church building that was virtually hidden from view for decades has also been opened up to the streetscape making for an interesting contrast of architectural styles against the flat white glass modern panes of the new tower.
The third and final stage of the project is expected to cost some $128 million dollars and has been put to tender with around 600 construction jobs being required to undertake the massive task. It is hoped construction will start in 2020 and be completed during 2023.
This third stage will add a new 250 seat courtyard theatre, a black box theatre and outdoor atrium to the centre. The arts centre will also receive dining and function facilities and new administration facilities. The Little Malop Street streetscape is expected to change dramatically with the centre expanding on to the footprint of property to the west of the centre between the State Government ‘upside down pyramid’ Offices.
