A small town in the Macarthur region of New South Wales will soon have a new performing arts centre, after it was approved by a state planning panel.
The 350-seat Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre in Picton, designed by Williams Ross Architects, forms part of the first stage of the Wollondilly Community, Cultural and Civic Precinct and will be a versatile, multi-purpose local venue capable of hosting dramatic theatre, music concerts, comedy, dance performance, cabaret, catered events, conferences and expos.
“The Performing Arts Centre will be able to host a range of live performances and functions, which will not only provide a space for people to gather and socialize but will support the stimulation of our local economy,” said Wollondilly mayor Matt Gould.
“It will provide an important space for the local arts sector and will hopefully inspire creativity and cultural expression in the years ahead.”
Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre by Williams Ross Architects.
The design of the facility will create a strong presence on corner of Menangle and Colden streets in Picton, taking its cues from the form of nearby post office. It will also celebrate the creative culture of Picton through a series of illuminated art boxes on the Colden street facade.
The theatre itself and the foyer spaces will present a double height glazed facade to the street. The design also includes sustainable elements such as rooftop solar, rainwater harvesting and energy efficient equipment.
Wollondilly Council appointed Williams Ross Architects and Tract Consultants in May 2020 for the design of the Wollondilly Community, Cultural and Civic Precinct. Stage two of the project will consist of a new Council Services Centre, more parking spaces and new public spaces.
It will accommodate council staff and the council is also looking to share the proposed building with state government agencies. The existing council administration building will be demolished and replaced with multiple buildings with public open space in between.
A Child Services Building, also part of the community, cultural and civic precinct, has already begun construction.
Source: Architecture Au