Premier Mark McGowan today unveiled the architectural design images of the new performing arts centre to be built at Melville Senior High School.
A key McGowan Government election commitment, construction will begin next month on the $4.5 million centre.
The new centre will feature two connected spaces for drama and dance, both with sprung floors and divided by a movable wall.
There will be retractable seating for 300 people, a green room, foyer and gallery space, as well as storage and a staff study.
The school has contributed a further $400,000 to the project for additional features such as lighting equipment, as well as covered concrete walkways that will connect the new centre to the school’s existing arts area.
Cox Architects and EMCO Building are delivering the project, which is scheduled for completion in late 2019.
As noted by Premier Mark McGowan:
“My Government is committed to investing in public schools across Western Australia to ensure all students – regardless of where they live – get a high-quality education.
“We are investing $468.7 million to build and improve WA public schools, and help support jobs for Western Australians.
“Building performing arts centres is a key election commitment and will bring schools and communities together.”
As noted by Education and Training Minister Sue Ellery:
“While the State Government is committed to building new schools in growing areas, we are also investing in established schools so students can continue to learn in the best possible environments.
“This investment will deliver a significant improvement for performing arts programs and performances at Melville Senior High School.
“Performances in classroom spaces without a stage will be a thing of the past, as the new facility will have industry-standard exhibition and performance spaces with audience seating, a stage and dedicated sound and lighting.”
As noted by Bicton MLA Lisa O’Malley:
“Delivering a performing arts centre at Melville Senior High School was one of my key election commitments and I’m proud to be delivering on this.
“There are so many talented students at Melville SHS and this new centre will provide more opportunities to expand on and learn new skills.
“I look forward to attending many school performances once the centre is open late next year.”
