Canberra Theatre Redevelopment: Shortlist

5 December 2022

By OCULUS

An artist's impression of a renewed precinct, shown at night. A sign reading 'Canberra Theatre Centre' is featured above a glowing entry foyer. There are a couple of people outside, and lots more people inside under sculptural lights.

Image: ACT Government.

OCULUS is pleased to be part of a team led by DesignInc and Zaha Hadid Architects, shortlisted to participate in the next phase of the Canberra Theatre Redevelopment, developing designs for spaces that create outstanding experiences and deliver excellence in urban design and architecture.

Located on Ngunnawal Country, this project aims to create a world-class destination for artists and audiences, Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Government’s Chief Minister, Andrew Barr says the redevelopment will “support the growth of the capital’s live performance industry by including spaces for artists and arts workers to develop and rehearse productions.”

Submissions were received from national and international consortia in response to a request for expressions of interest to find a design and technical partner. Minister for the Arts, Tara Cheyne was pleased to see “such a significant level of interest from design teams who want to partner with the ACT Government on this city-shaping project,” and is “excited to see the innovative tenders these industry leaders produce.”

After receiving twenty-one submissions, three organisations with a track record for delivering excellence in globally significant design and architecture projects were selected to design a globally recognised theatre centre that supports Canberra’s strategic ambition to be Australia’s arts capital.

Designing for diversity and inclusion will be a priority. Following evaluation, it is expected the successful consortium will be appointed by mid-2023 to develop and deliver detailed designs for Canberra Theatre Centre.

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