Construction is well underway on the new Western Sydney Performing Arts Centre, designed by Cox Architecture. The centre is expected to open in approximately 12 months.
Located in Rooty Hill, the 2,000-seat proscenium arch theatre will have the capacity to house large-scale musicals, ballet and opera companies and symphony orchestras. Including a full fly system, retractable seating and outstanding sightlines, the theatre will be the first of its kind outside of the Sydney CBD.
Designed by Cox Architecture and constructed by lead contractor, Hansen Yuncken, the building has been created with a flowing, curved exterior ‘curtain’ façade and with grand, light-filled interior foyers finished in elegant natural finishes. According to the architect, the main theatre auditorium is equally unique in both its fit-out and functionality, with a warm and inviting interior with variable capacity modes ranging from 900 to 2,000 when seated, increasing to 2,300 capacity in concert (standing) mode.
The auditorium also features a unique retractable stalls seating system which enables the auditorium to easily transform from theatre mode into concert/cabaret/conference mode in less than a few hours.
“All eyes are on Western Sydney where we are redefining the cultural experience, building cultural infrastructure which will be the envy of the world,” says The Hon Stuart Ayres MP, minister for Western Sydney.
“This cultural precinct will drive visitation, offer an experience like no other and give Western Sydney an arts hub to be proud of.”
“Audiences in Sydney are at risk of missing out on some major shows because of the lack of theatre availability,” adds Craig McMaster, executive director of Western Sydney Performing Arts Centre.
“This stunning new theatre will offer an exciting new option for producers and promoters, and also offer Australia’s leading arts and production companies the gateway venue to Western Sydney’s rapidly expanding population and economy that has been long overdue.”
