It’s a sound time for an upgrade at Anglesea Memorial Hall

THE Anglesea Memorial Hall will undergo a revamp to transform the existing live music, community, and events space into a more modern and technically advanced performance venue.

Improvements to the hall’s sound and lighting infrastructure, stage curtaining, window treatments, and the installation of a projector and screen providing a cinematic experience, are part of upgrade works due to start this month, with contractors being appointed.

The project, scheduled for completion early in 2021, received $50,000 in Victorian Government funding through the Stronger Regional Communities Program, $93,250 from the Surf Coast Shire council, and $47,750 in community contributions.

“This much-loved community hub is home to many events and performances including The Sound Doctor Presents concert series, Anglesea Performing Arts productions, and the One-Act-Play Festival,” shire mayor Libby Stapleton said.

“It is regularly transformed into an extraordinary performance space and these improvements will greatly enhance audience experiences and benefit performers.

“We look forward to having productions back in full swing with the advanced technology.”

Janine McKenzie from Anglesea Performing Arts (APA), who also run the One-Act-Play Festival, said the upgrade signalled an exciting time for the community “saving time” for organisers in the future.

“This August would have been the One-Act-Play Festival’s 30th anniversary. We attract some of the best playwrights and talent both locally and from across Victoria to Anglesea every year.

“It’s very time consuming for volunteers to fit and black out the hall for performances. The upgrades mean we can continue to deliver the incredibly high standard of productions we’re known for without the time constraints on volunteers.”

Ms McKenzie said while APA had their own equipment, the hall’s outdated equipment and infrastructure often resulted in extra costs for other groups and event organisers who have to hire theirs.

“The equipment can be expensive to hire and the sound and lighting gear we have is pretty entry-level. The technology that comes with the upgrades will be far superior.

“APA is an award-winning group with an enviable reputation across Geelong, the Surf Coast, and beyond known for our innovative, cutting-edge high-quality performances. The upgrades will help us, and other local theatre troupes, continue delivering productions you wouldn’t normally be able to see locally.”

Community fundraising efforts being facilitated by the Anglesea Community House were recently buoyed by a $20,000 contribution from Anglesea and District Community Bank and a further $8,500 donated from a range of local groups.

The community hopes to reach its target early in 2021.