Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert has today launched a $45 million redevelopment of Monash University’s Alexander Theatre.
The Andrews Labor Government contributed $10 million in the Victorian Budget 2016/17 to the theatre which is being renamed The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts.
Monash University has contributed $25 million towards the project; The Ian Potter Foundation has contributed $5 million as well as $5 million from the Monash Foundation.
The revamped complex will create a world-class entertainment precinct in Melbourne’s south-east.
The redevelopment will see seating increased to 586 seats and feature two new performance venues: a 200-seat Jazz club and a 130-seat Sound Gallery.
Monash University is a key cultural and community asset for south-east Melbourne, attracting more than 600,000 visitors to its facilities each year, with the Alexander Theatre one of the main drawcards.
Monash hopes to increase visitor numbers to more than 1 million after the redevelopment is complete.
South-east Melbourne is home to almost 1.5 million people and, with this investment from the University, the Labor Government and the state’s generous philanthropists, the revitalised theatre and performance precinct will engage university staff and students and the broader community.
The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts will host everything from world-class performers to cultural groups and student ensembles. The theatre is expected to open in early 2018 with the adjoining venues to follow.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Training and Skills Steve Herbert
“This redevelopment isn’t just a win for the staff and students of Monash University; it’s a win for the local community who will also have access to the facilities.”
“The new Potter Centre for Performing Arts will attract world-class performers which is a huge win for Victoria.”
Quotes attributable to Member for Oakleigh Steve Dimopoulos
“This Government is an avid supporter of the Arts, and I look forward to a cultural precinct at the Clayton campus and the opportunities it will provide for the vast number of schools, local arts and cultural groups in my electorate of Oakleigh.”
Reviewed 19 August 2020