Geelong Arts Centre
Geelong, Victoria
Over four years of visionary design and construction breathe new life into the largest dedicated regional arts centre in Australia.
A place with many stories to tell
The bold new creative hub creates the perfect environment for visitors and performers to thrive. Echoing the incredible heritage of the city and surrounds, every space in the Geelong Arts Centre redevelopment is carefully designed with its own narrative. It reflects Geelong’s rich history, traditions of circus and theatre, and First Nations culture.
Inspired by Victoria’s early history of performance tents, the impressive exterior façade invites people into an open, breathtaking interior. Ceilings resembling the inside of a circus tent, created using australian araucaria™, continue this story and welcome people into a place where there’s something for everyone.
An inclusive environment where creativity can flourish
It was important for the space to be a wonderful experience for all with thoughtful design incorporating universal design principles focusing on inclusivity and accessibility throughout.
“This design delivers on our bold vision for this project, it embraces the cultural precinct, it challenges the idea of a black box theatres that turns their back on the world. Through using the principals of universal design, this outcome is welcoming, inclusive, inspires and facilitates joy, creativity and encourages people to be part of our creative community.”
– Joel McGuinness, Geelong Arts Centre CEO and Creative Director
Bold design heralds a bold future
With a bold future in its sights, Geelong Arts Centre is committed to enriching the entire region with easy access to inspirational art experiences. The $140 million redevelopment has significantly expanded its capacity, providing an incredible range of spaces for entertainment lovers to enjoy.
“We have worked with world leaders to design these spaces, pushing the boundaries of what theatre spaces will need now and what they can be for the future.”
– Joel McGuinness, Geelong Arts Centre CEO & Creative Director
