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Patronage of Warrnambool’s Lighthouse Theatre has risen by 29% since the completion of its $9.2 million redevelopment in 2012.

15,000 more patrons have used south-western Victoria’s premier entertainment venue in the past financial year compared with the period before its redevelopment - numbers rising from 52,000 in 2009/10 to a projected 67,000 in the past financial year.

The rise in patronage was revealed in Warrnambool City Council’s post-refurbishment review of the theatre.

Lighthouse Theatre Manager Greg Diamantis said the 2013/14 period was the first full financial year to allow for a proper assessment of the centre’s progress.

He told regional newspaper The Standard that a mixture of big-name acts, community performances and conferences had contributed to the impressive figures, stating “there’s no doubt 2013/14 was a fabulous year for the venue.

“It’s not just the national and international names that have generated (boosted attendance numbers) but community engagement as well.”

Some of Australia’s biggest musical acts performed on the Lighthouse Theatre stage during the past 12 months, including Russell Morris, Glenn Sharrock, Leo Sayer, Richard Clapton and Brian Cadd along with entertainers such as Dave Hughes and Ernie Sigley.

Diamantis added “Circus Oz was quite a coup for us. It was the first time they had performed at the theatre and the audience reception was fantastic.”

Previously known as the Warrnambool Performing Arts Centre and the Warrnambool Entertainment Centre, the $9.2 million refurbishment of the site was revealed in April 2012.

The redevelopment, designed by Williams Ross Architects, included improved access, amenities and theatre technology, a versatile boutique performance space for grassroots theatre and a contemporary glass façade which has redefined the face of Warrnambool’s cultural precinct.

Diamantis concluded “Opera Australia were impressed with our back-stage facilities, as well as the friendliness of our staff, so it’s wonderful to receive that type of feedback.

“Our partnership with Deakin University has also increased accessibility to some theatrical productions, including an upcoming Bell Shakespeare performance.”

For more information visit the Lighthouse Theatre website at www.lighthousetheatre.com.au

23rd September 2013 - INVESTING IN VICTORIA’S DYNAMIC ARTS ORGANISATIONS

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