The Shirley Burke Theatre in Parkdale, Victoria has reopened after a $1.7 million renovation by Suters Architects.
The refurbishment of the 84 year old theatre included an upgrade of the façade as well as construction of a new bar, kiosk and box office and refurbishment of performance spaces. The upgraded theatre seats 167 people and has a new multi-use studio space. A street front gallery space has also been constructed as a venue to host new media works. Shirley Burke Theatre 'before'
Suters project leader Michael Hubbard said that the inspiration for the lightbox facade was drawn from art deco and traditional theatre imagery.
“The visual of the lightbox facade was influenced by classical images of cabaret theatre including spotlights and can-can dancers with fishnet tights and stilettos,” Hubbard said.
“We worked closely with the Kingston CityCouncil and local user groups to provide a theatre that the whole community can be proud of, and that will inspire talented artists and performers from around the country to bring their work to this bayside suburb and surrounding community.
Theatre coordinator Tracey Kean said the response from the local community has been overwhelming. “A great team of people have put a lot of passion, thought and hard work into recreating the Shirley Burke Theatre into a truly remarkable venue. The community response reflects that we really did hit the mark,” Kean said.
The project was funded by the City of Kingston and the Victorian Government, through Arts Victoria.
