New-look Civic Theatre unveiled after $700,000 upgrade

The curtain has been raised on the new-look Civic Theatre, with the community facility’s $700,000 refurbishment all but complete.

Over the past three months, the theatre has been transformed with new auditorium seating and carpet; new paint, carpet and furniture for the foyers; permanent wheelchair lift so performers of all abilities can more easily take to the stage; an accessible backstage toilet; and new balcony furniture.

The installation of a new retractable roof on the balcony will be completed in May.

Mayor of the City of Wagga Wagga Councillor Greg Conkey OAM said the theatre had hosted more than 500,000 patrons across 1700-plus shows since its last major works in 2000.

“The Civic Theatre is one of our city’s most significant cultural facilities, whether it’s the diverse range of shows and performances offered each year or through its fostering of local talent,” he said.

“A lot of planning has gone into this project and the end result is a new look, new seating with a better alignment and accessibility improvements that make our theatre one of the most inclusive in regional NSW.”

The Civic Theatre’s $700,000 upgrade was funded through a Create NSW capital infrastructure grant of $60,000 and the remainder coming from Council’s Section 94 contributions fund.

“This funding encourages collaboration and partnerships here in the regions, with NSW Government support being matched on a dollar-for-dollar basis with other funding from local government, community groups and organisations,” Member for Wagga Wagga Daryl Maguire MP said.

“This refurbishment is welcomed to continue building on community participation in our arts and cultural activities.”

The first performance at the new-look theatre is Music in the Evening on Wednesday 28 March from 6pm featuring the Australian Army Band Kapooka.

Civic Theatre Manager Carissa Campbell said the refurbished theatre will be put through its paces in the coming months with a broad range of shows, from Shakespeare to Kate Miller-Heidke as well as opera, ballet, jazz and circus.

“As well as the cosmetic changes, you’ll really notice the difference when you take your seat,” she said.

“The old seats were well worn and these new ones are comfortable and arranged so you can better see the stage no matter where you’re sitting.

“Our balcony has one of the best views in Wagga and when the works there are complete we’ll have a much more versatile space that can be used despite the weather.

“Make sure you come and experience the new theatre for yourself, whether it’s at one of our Season 2018 shows or one of the many other events we host throughout the year.”

To find out more about the new-look theatre or to book tickets for Music in the Evening and other shows, visit www.civictheatre.com.au.