Campus update

Work is progressing well on the new $20 million Performing Arts Centre, incorporating the Gough Family Theatre, with completion forecast for the end of 2023, says Project Director, David Evans. “It is a complex, restricted construction site in the heart of the College, which has created pressure for the project’s programme timing. However, we are very pleased with progress.”

Internal and external wall framing is continuing on the Gough Family Theatre, with insulation installation underway. “All first fix services have been installed above ceiling height, and the ceiling grid is in place. It is really starting to take shape,” says David.

Features of the exciting new Theatre are seating for 265, large stage and wing areas, and an overhead gantry walkway system with support and access to theatrical lighting. This will enable students to have handson experience in theatre lighting theory and set up, says David. “Large changing facilities, extensive costume and prop storage, and a workspace for set building are other special elements, which will provide an enhanced experience for those supporting productions with things like hair and make-up, set design and construction, and wardrobe.”

Conversion of the mini Gym into a Black Box Theatre, which will support day-to-day Drama teaching, is also going well, with the structural steel installation complete.

The roof is on over the Ballet Studio, Dance Studio, and Gym 1 foyer, where timber flooring has also been laid. The cafeteria and kitchen areas are also progressing well.

Striking steel cladding has been going up on the outside of the Performing Arts Centre, providing a glimpse of just what an impressive landmark structure it is going to be.

“With construction of the Performing Art Centre moving into its final stages over the next few months, there is growing excitement about the wonderful opportunities the facilities will provide for Drama, Dance, and Ballet students, the College’s impressive productions, technical and support crews, staff, audiences, and the wider College community, who will utilise it for a range of other purposes,” says David.

With nightly standing ovations, the Senior Production, Bright Star , was an outstanding success. The bluegrass musical was an epic tale of love, loss, heartbreak, and redemption, which moved and delighted audiences.

Rector, Christine Leighton, congratulated the cast and crew on their dazzling performances, and says many glowing emails were received about the show, including this from an audience member: “We were all astounded as we were wrenched through a full range of emotions from beginning to end – shock, tears, hurt, warmth, and hysterical laughter. We are so very privileged to have such incredible teachers and directors to lead our future ‘bright stars’.”