Proposal to consider concert hall for city
Date published: 14 March 2017
Townsville City Council’s commitment to furthering the performing arts in Townsville will be bolstered with the commissioning of a study into the feasibility of a concert and recital hall.
Council has engaged noted arts and cultural consultant Jennifer Bott to conduct the study, that will investigate the proposal for a facility to support a new generation of music and live theatre lovers.
Ms Bott will be in the city tomorrow to meet with internal and some external stakeholders as part of an initial investigation into the concept.
Community and Cultural Development Committee Chair Cr Colleen Doyle said the study would work with the local arts community to examine the viability and demand for such a facility.
Alternatives, including an independent proposal for a major expansion of the Townsville Civic Theatre would also be considered.
Cr Doyle said location, size and cost would be key considerations for any proposal that would feed into work currently being undertaken by Pure Projects to refocus and revision the city.
“Townsville is a major hub for performing arts in North Queensland, attracting high-calibre shows, entertainers and productions year round,” Cr Doyle said.
“It is important however, that any proposal is consistent with the overarching vision for the future of our city and considers the interests of Townsville, those involved in the arts and its residents.”
Cr Doyle said the planned $10 million refurbishment of the Townsville Civic Theatre was unaffected by the announcement.
Work to ensure the facility’s compliance with new legislation and current building codes will get underway later this year, with the theatre to close for six months from January 2018.
Alternative venues including Riverway performing arts space, C2, school of arts, school halls, and outdoor venues and the Entertainment Centre will be used during this period.
