Arts Centre Melbourne: the Refurbishment of the Ian Potter State Theatre
Description
In March 2024, the State Theatre closed its doors to undergo its first ever refurbishment as part of the Reimagining Arts Centre Melbourne project, a significant chapter in Arts Centre Melbourne’s history that will see major upgrades to the Theatres Building under the spire.
The refurbishment has introduced new aisles in the stalls and circle, accessible seating in the stalls supported by two new lifts, and upgraded seating, flooring, heating and cooling, alongside technological upgrades to support all styles of theatre.
The theatre's heritage characteristics have been preserved or replicated to honour the original vision of renowned costume and theatre designer, John Truscott, whose theatrical opulence has defined the auditorium for generations.
What's On
In this exclusive talk in the Leaper Family Pavilion, you’ll hear from Chris King, the director of the Reimagining Arts Centre Melbourne project, on how the Ian Potter State Theatre has been restored and upgraded in collaboration with acclaimed architects and designers NH Architecture and Snøhetta. Chris will share how the theatre’s accessibility, comfort, and acoustics have been significantly enhanced, and what this means for the future of this treasured and iconic venue.
*Please note, this is not a tour of the Ian Potter State Theatre.
Images: (1) Inside the Ian Potter State Theatre. Photo: Tim Ross. (2) Render from inside the Ian Potter State Theatre. Render: NH Architecture. (3) Ceiling and seats inside the Ian Potter State Theatre. Photo: Mark Gambino.
Important Details
Time & Date
Saturday 25 July + Sunday 26 July
Talk 11am
Running for 40 minutes for up to 150
Meet at the Leaper Family Pavilion, level 8 of the Theatres Building, Arts Centre Melbourne.
ACCESSIBILITY
Lift access to all public levels, Accessible parking
There will be hoardings around the Theatres Building due to the Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation, which impacts and limits space surrounding the building. There are toilets within the Theatres Building, and regular programming will be across our stages.
