Local theatre sets the scene for upgrade

Tuesday, 23 January 2018

The stage is set for work to begin on an upgrade to the driveway and courtyard at the Playhouse Theatre in Bundaberg thanks to a Stronger Communities Program grant from the Federal Government.

Federal Member for Hinkler Keith Pitt congratulated the Bundaberg Players which received $6,295 under round three of the popular program.

“The work being done will remove the trip hazards and improve the safety for members and people visiting the theatre to watch fantastic local productions,” Mr Pitt said.

“The Stronger Communities Program has been a boost for community groups and organisations like Bundaberg Players that would otherwise struggle to fund these types of improvements.”

Bundaberg Players vice-president Karen Harris said the existing bitumen was deteriorating badly and washing away, causing potholes and trip hazards.

“The upgrading of this infrastructure will ensure the safety of our membership base and the visiting public,” Ms Harris said.

“We host the Eisteddfod every year and the complex is in use, on average, six days a week all year, with approximately 8,000 people involved, so their safety and accessibility will be greatly improved.”

Bundaberg Players Incorporated (formerly known as Bundaberg Amateur Players, formed in 1951) has an extensive cultural history in the Bundaberg area and is one of three venues in Bundaberg equipped with stage and auditorium facilities.

The Playhouse Theatre stages at least five productions every year and the complex is a year-round hive of activity with other organisations hiring the venue for their own events and performances such as choral, orchestral and band concerts,  musicals and award ceremonies.

The Stronger Communities Program offered eligible community groups grants of between $5,000 and $20,000 for small capital projects. All applications need to commit at least matching funding or in-kind contributions.

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