Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre
New Wangaratta centre encourages the arts
Great performances are always inspiring wherever they take place. But for Wangaratta locals, enjoying the likes of Toni Childs and Dorothy the Dinosaur is especially fantastic in the plush comfort of their own $8 million performing arts centre.
The Wangaratta Performing Arts Centre, or the PAC as it's fondly known by locals, is located in the centre of the thriving north-east Victorian town. The dynamic, multi-purpose venue is perfect for the presentation of professional theatre performances, community productions, major events and conferencing.
Wangaratta's PAC was built using $4.5 million contribution from the State Government's Regional Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) and features a 530-seat main auditorium, a flat function space for up to 570 people, dressing rooms, a café, dedicated kitchen, theatre bar and box office.
"In the short time since we opened, the centre has already become the heartbeat of our community," says centre manager, Penny Hargraves. "I often hear people saying 'let's meet at the PAC and see what's on'. The place is bringing people together, which is exactly what we want."
Wangaratta's Mayor, Ron Webb, is equally enthusiastic. "Wangaratta is proud to have a venue where our local community and visitors can experience the excitement of a nationally-acclaimed production, hear the richness of a symphony orchestra and see world class performers and entertainers," he says.
"The venue is now northeast Victoria's performing arts hub and positions Wangaratta as a choice location for travelling performances."
One of the venue's most appealing aspects is the way it encourages locals to try new things. "People who previously thought performances weren't for them now feel comfortable in what they consider to be 'their' space," Penny says.
"Our central spot really helps. We're so close to everything that people just pop in. Like the mums who visit after pre-school story time at the library. The have lunch then check out the box office to see what's on."
One of the PAC's most inspiring connections is with local schools. Like the primary school which never did anything theatrical before but now puts on three sell-out performances a year.
"The kids think it's Christmas being able to perform on a real stage. For some it's a once in a lifetime experience. For others, it might be the start of an exciting future. Opportunities in the arts are often limited in regional areas but not in north-east Victoria. The PAC is helping inspire people to live to their full potential."