New life will be breathed into Kingston’s historic Causeway Hall when it’s converted into a theatre venue by the newly established ACT Hub.
The announcement was spurred after four Canberra theatre companies last year pitched to the ACT Government their idea to establish the Australian Capital Theatre Hub (ACT Hub) at Causeway Hall and run the venue.
The facility, currently managed by the ACT Property Group, will be leased to the ACT Hub under an initial two-year agreement. The vision is to establish Causeway Hall as a dedicated performing space for independent theatre.
Consultation was undertaken with the local community following the submission of the proposal to government with the idea receiving “strong support” from the public.
Causeway Hall will – through the investment of its resident theatre companies – be transformed within heritage requirements to a multi-functional performing space, with a semi-permanent stage, seating and lighting.
With an eight-show season, classes, workshops and various special theatrical events throughout the year, the ACT Hub will also focus on providing development opportunities for emerging directors and designers.
Mockingbird Theatre Company, Free-Rain Theatre Company, Everyman Theatre Company and Chaika Theatre Company were behind the bid and will all head up ACT Hub.
Anne Somes of Free-Rain Theatre Company said she hopes ACT Hub can be a “thriving, growing entity” offering work to local artists
“ACT Hub will be a haven for theatre goers; a pulsating venue to visit; the place to be,” she said.
The Hall will host cabaret nights, play readings and other fringe events alongside their vibrant season of traditional theatre.
ACT Hub also plan to partner with local businesses to showcase ACT wines and beers along while local art displays will adorn the venue.
While ACT Hub will have priority use of the hall it will still be available for community events and use by casual hirers from “time to time”.
Causeway Canberra’s first purpose-built hall
Built through voluntary labour in 1925, the Causeway Hall was the first project completed by the Canberra Social Service Association.
For a time it was the city’s principle venue for entertainment and was used for theatre, dancing, concerts and was home to Canberra’s earliest entertainment groups.
The Causeway Hall itself is the last substantial building dating from the original 1920s Causeway settlement.
It was the first purpose-built hall constructed in the new federal capital of Canberra.
Jarrad West of Everyman Theatre Company expressed delight in taking up residency in Canberra’s oldest purpose-built community entertainment venues is a delight. “We’re excited to have been entrusted with stewardship of this historic building and look forward to celebrating its 100th birthday in the future.”
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