Leading construction company, Multiplex, has officially reached completion on Monash University’s new Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts.
Located at Monash University’s Clayton campus, the $54.2 million complex comprises three key venues – full refurbishment and re-purposing of the existing Alexander Theatre, a new flat floor multi-purpose Sound Gallery and a new live performance Jazz Club which will be a bustling high-end café by day and destination restaurant by night.
Designed by Peter Elliot Architects, Irwinconsult, Marshall Day Acoustics, Marshall Day Entertech and AECOM, the five-level 561-seat Alexander Theatre has undergone major refurbishment including a new façade, new services and finishes, a Serapid orchestra pit lift and extensive landscaping around the precinct.
Connectivity to the new Sound Gallery and Jazz Club occurs through one large shared foyer space.
The re-purposed Alexander Theatre features state-of-the-art theatre technology such as a 38 line power automated stage flying system and high-end audio-visual technology including a Meyer Sound ‘Constellation’ active acoustic system which will provide cutting-edge sound technology and a means of creating endless acoustic environments in the space at the press of a button.
The new 130 seat Sound Gallery’s flexible flat floor configuration and emphasis on intimacy and excellent acoustics encompassing the Meyer Sound Constellation active acoustic system ensures the venue is ideal for a wide range of music offerings from chamber music through to experimental ensembles.
The new Jazz Club, seating 200 people, combines dining and entertainment facilities and boasts a large commercial kitchen, two bar areas, backstage facilities and a large external terrace for outdoor dining and entertainment.
The Ian Potter Centre for Performing Arts is expected to further enhance Monash University’s commitment to supporting growth in the performing arts in Melbourne’s south-east by providing state-of-the-art facilities to world-class professional productions, students, community groups, schools and residents.
Regional Managing Director for Multiplex Victoria, Graham Cottam, said that Multiplex is thrilled to deliver this innovative performing arts complex and continue their ongoing collaboration with Monash University.
“This represents our sixth project for Monash University and combined our skills in delivering highly specified entertainment venues with our experience in working in busy, live education environments,” he said.
Work on the development commenced in October 2016 and approximately 250 people worked on-site throughout construction.