Final stage set for theatre reno

STAGE three developments have begun for Australia’s oldest continuously operating theatre building.

Her Majesty’s Theatre is nearly 150 years old, and upgrades have been underway at the venue since 2018, with the most recent works aimed at improving accessibility.

Member for Wendouree Juliana Addison said the completed restoration will mean more performers and audience members can enjoy the historic venue.

“The Andrews Labor Government is investing $10 million to make Her Majesty’s more accessible for all audience members,” she said.

“This is one of Ballarat’s treasures. It’s one of our most loved venues in terms of developing culture and the arts in our community.

“We want to make sure there’s equality for all in terms of access to performance.”

State Government cash has been allocated through the Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund, with money from the City of Ballarat and the Federal Government bringing the total redevelopment cost to nearly $15 million.

The stage three works are being undertaken by Nicholson Construction, with new features to include reconstructed fire escapes and two lifts with one granting access from the dressing rooms to the stage.

Staff at Nicholson Construction previously handled earlier redevelopments at the venue and site manager Michael McNamara said it’s been an interesting project to be a part of.

“Working on these older buildings is always very challenging because there’s always probably 70 per cent of the work you don’t know until you open up places and structures to find out what you’re dealing with,” he said.

Megan Zanker, acting theatre manager of Her Majesty’s, has been with the venue for about 15 years and said greater accessibility has been a long time coming.

“This is something that’s been needed for a while and something we’ve been advocating for many years,” she said.

“Previously, it’s been a bit limited for patrons going into stalls because that’s the only access they’ve been given plus disability toilets on the lower levels.”

Stage three works are expected to be completed by July 2024.