In a move that heralds a new era for South Australia’s cultural landscape, the Adelaide Festival Centre is poised to undergo a transformative $35 million upgrade. This significant investment marks a continuation of the visionary legacy set by Gough Whitlam and Don Dunstan, who inaugurated the centre in July 1973.
As Australia’s first major arts centre, the Adelaide Festival Centre has long been a beacon of cultural and artistic excellence. The upcoming overhaul, funded through the mid-year budget review, is not just a facelift but a comprehensive enhancement of the centre’s accessibility and safety features.
Scheduled to commence in 2025, the renovation will focus on the Western Plaza, particularly the area bridging the Festival Theatre and Dunstan Playhouse. This project, having received the green light from the State Heritage Architect and planning authorities, aims to redefine the northern entrance of the site. The new design promises a seamless connection to the Dunstan Playhouse and Space Theatre from the Northern Promenade and Walk of Fame.
A notable feature of this upgrade is the introduction of lift access from the Northern Promenade directly to the Plaza level. This addition is a game-changer, particularly for families with strollers and individuals using mobility aids. It addresses the current challenge posed by the five-meter vertical drop between the Plaza and the north-face level, offering a much-needed alternative to the existing switch-back ramps.
The refurbishment extends beyond aesthetic improvements, with a significant portion dedicated to enhancing the fire and safety systems of the centre. This includes the modernisation of smoke detection and occupant warning systems, emergency lighting, and sprinkler systems, ensuring a safer environment for patrons and performers alike.
Andrea Michaels MP, Minister for Arts, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, linking it to South Australia’s rich artistic heritage. “South Australia is renowned for its incredible arts, culture, and creativity, and that reputation began with the vision of Labor Premier Don Dunstan when he opened Adelaide Festival Centre, the first arts centre in Australia, alongside Labor Prime Minister Gough Whitlam,” she said. Michaels added, “Just like our Government, Don Dunstan understood that art is a powerful way of connecting with each other and the world. And 50 years later, I am delighted that the Malinauskas Government is continuing that legacy with a $35 million investment to upgrade this treasured asset to our state.”
Douglas Gautier AM, CEO & Artistic Director of the Adelaide Festival Centre, also shared his excitement about the announcement. “We are pleased with this announcement, which follows Adelaide Festival Centre’s 50th Anniversary celebrations last year,” he stated. Gautier looks forward to the positive impact this investment will have on the centre, enhancing its status as Adelaide’s pre-eminent arts venue and enriching the experiences of audiences and artists alike.
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