The Australian Performing Arts Exchange (APAX) has announced Geelong Arts Centre as the Performing Arts Centre of the Year at the 2024 IMPACT Awards. The accolade comes as the arts centre celebrates the first anniversary of its transformative $180 million redevelopment.
In a ceremony that bestowed a total of nine awards, Geelong Arts Centre was recognised for its redevelopment, co-designed with ARM Architects, Wadawurrung Traditional Owners Aboriginal Corporation, and the wider First Nations community.
The arts centre’s ground-breaking program fostering pathways for local artists, Creative Engine, was also highlighted as a key factor in its success.
The past twelve months at the newly redeveloped Geelong Arts Centre have been a vibrant and transformative period, marked by a diverse range of performances and events that have enriched the local community.
Welcoming over 256,000 visitors in its first year, the state-of-the-art facilities have attracted both national and international talent, bringing world-class performances to Geelong’s doorstep.
Geelong Arts Centre is the first venue to receive this prestigious award twice, having previously won in 2011. This occasion marks the first time the award ceremony has been held at the winning venue, adding to the arts centre’s celebration of its one year anniversary since the redevelopment.
This award is not just a testament to the arts centre’s architectural and programmatic achievements but also a celebration of the community’s active participation and enthusiasm for the arts. As Geelong Arts Centre continues to open its doors to world-class talent, the community is invited to embrace the diverse cultural experiences on offer.
“Winning this award for the second time is beyond exciting, but what really gets us going is seeing the impact of projects like Creative Engine,” said CEO and Creative Director Geelong Arts Centre, Rhys Holden. “We’re seeing local artists take their works to international stages, and that’s what it’s all about – nurturing talent and watching it soar.”
“The redevelopment wasn’t just about building a space, but rather creating a home. A place where everyone in Geelong and beyond can come together, celebrate culture, and see themselves reflected in the arts.”
For more information about Geelong Arts Centre, visit: www.geelongartscentre.org.au for details.
Image: Geelong Arts Centre – photo by Peter Foster