Cessnock City Council is pleased to announce it was successful in obtaining a $181,000 grant under the NSW Government’s Creative Capital program to upgrade Cessnock Performing Arts Centre’s (CPAC) stage lighting.
The funds will be used to replace the existing incandescent lighting with state-of-the-art LED equivalent and movers.
The upgrade will provide a significant reduction to operating costs for the Centre in terms of electricity usage, as well as reduce labour costs associated with rigging and re-rigging theatre lighting before and after performances.
Cessnock City Council Mayor Jay Suvaal said the announcement was a welcome boost to the region’s growing reputation as a cultural hub.
“CPAC really is one of the hidden treasures of the Hunter Region. This grant will ensure that the venue has the equipment it needs to keep up with the changing nature of the Arts industry, while continuing to provide the very best in live entertainment for both local patrons and those visiting our area.”
CPAC’s Operation Team Leader John Zeder said the upgrade will provide the Centre with a multitude of benefits.
“Our new lighting system substantially expands the creative and artistic possibilities available to our clients, who now expect this standard of resource when booking venues. It will also give both our current and future technicians and theatre practitioners access to industry standard equipment.”
“We pride ourselves on being a well-respected training ground for young technicians starting out in their careers. This upgrade allows these new starters to continue to get the hands-on experience working in the modern-day entertainment industry that we’re renowned for.”
Work is expected to commence in late 2022 and is made possible thanks to funding under the NSW Government’s Creative Capital program.
