The beating heart of Ballarat’s creative and artistic life will soon open its doors to the public once again, with the finishing touches being made to a refreshed Her Majesty’s Theatre.
The grand re-opening, scheduled for November 2024, will unveil an upgraded venue that respects the theatre’s rich history, incorporates state-of-the-art amenities and ensures the venue has improved accessibility for patrons, staff and performers, said City of Ballarat Mayor, Des Hudson.
Mayor Hudson and fellow Councillors joined Victorian Minister for Regional Development, Gayle Tierney and Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison for a tour of the facility today.
The $16.3 million project is supported by $10 million from the State Government’s Regional Jobs and Infrastructure Fund.
“Community access to Her Majesty’s Theatre has been extremely limited in recent years, with the vital redevelopment works commencing not long after the pandemic,” Mayor Hudson said.
“There is so much excitement in the air around the theatre reopening and after getting a sneak preview inside, I can promise people will not be disappointed.
“This redevelopment not only preserves an iconic piece of our city’s history but also ensures that it remains a vibrant, functional space for future generations to enjoy.”
Member for Wendouree, Juliana Addison said, “The Allan Labor Government is proud to have invested more than $10 million to ensure that future generations of locals and visitors can experience live performances, recitals, eisteddfods at Her Majesty’s Theatre.”
“The restoration and accessibility upgrades will ensure even more performers and patrons will enjoy all the grand theatre has to offer.”
The latest works at Her Majesty’s began in February 2023 and have been the most significant to date.
Substantial accessibility improvements have been made, including the installation of two new elevators providing direct access to the stage for artists and performers and access for patrons to all levels of the auditorium. Other noticeable upgrades include an improved front-of-house area, new toilet facilities, a new administration area and improved back of house artist amenities.
A number of shows have already been announced at Her Majesty’s for late-2024, including three-time Grammy award winning artist St. Vincent and Marcia Hines.
The venue will also celebrate its 150th anniversary in 2025, with plans well under way to mark the significant milestone in collaboration with the community.
