The future of the Hopgood Theatre has been secured
After an extensive consultation campaign that concluded early 2023, we are pleased to advise the future of the Hopgood Theatre has now been secured. This comes as a result of the state government’s approval of a 25-year lease agreement between TAFE SA and the City of Onkaparinga, officially transferring the theatre’s operation to the council.
“The Hopgood Theatre is more than a building; it's a vital part of our community, drawing a diverse crowd of patrons including schools, regional groups and seniors from all walks of life, and these upgrades ensure it will remain a vibrant hub for decades to come.” Moira Were, Mayor
As part of the agreement, a grant of $6 million was provided to the City of Onkaparinga for the refurbishment of the theatre.
Theatre refurbishment
Through prior community engagement and consultation with performing arts practitioners and Country Arts SA, we have identified opportunities to enhance the theatre experience both directly and indirectly. These insights have guided our focus areas for the design of the refurbishment. They include:
- Wayfinding and greater promotion of programs and events.
- Entrance, foyer, bar and façade improvements and broader activation.
- Theatre lighting, acoustic and audio upgrades.
- Accessibility upgrades.
- Activation of the second performance (lecture) theatre.
- Green room, dressing room, and rehearsal space improvements.
Enhancements to these areas aim to improve the overall experience for both performers and audience members.
Council has engaged a consultancy team with experience in theatre projects to design the upgrades and technological improvements. We are currently in the process of refining the final scope and deliverables in accordance with the available grant funding.
View the Hopgood refurbishment concept ideas here.
Construction
Construction of the Hopgood Theatre refurbishment will be delivered through two project phases. The first phase is the renewal of the building’s roof sheeting by TAFE SA, and the second phase is the internal upgrades overseen by Council.
Construction of TAFE SA’s roof refurbishment project is anticipated to take place from mid-2024 until late 2024.
Council’s internal refurbishment project will begin soon after this. We expect the refurbishment may take approximately 10 months, subject to the awarded contractor’s program.
To hear about updates as the project progresses, click the '+ Follow' button.
