Deep underground, work to upgrade and expand Arts Centre Melbourne’s iconic spire-topped Theatres Building has reached an important milestone, as part of Victorian Government’s city-shaping Melbourne Arts Precinct Transformation.

The work extends the basement of the Theatres Building to make way for new and expanded facilities, increasing the centre’s capacity to present ambitious world-class performances.

Enough to fill six Olympic swimming pools, the excavation behind the Theatre’s Building has seen the removal of 15,644m3 of earth and has reached the required depth of approximately 14 metres underground.  

This will create space for a new flexible rehearsal space and studio and an expanded loading dock, critical to the smooth running of the centre’s numerous venues and busy calendar of shows.  

The loading dock expansion will include two truck lifts and be double the current size to allow for faster bump-in-and-out times for productions, and for more performances to be staged. The new rehearsal space and studio will support the successful staging of performances and provide new amenities for creative workers and performers.

Inside Arts Centre Melbourne’s State Theatre, works continue to make improvements to accessibility, acoustics, theatre technology and audience comfort, alongside essential work to safeguard the building’s foundations.  

Works are also progressing for the next section of the deck to be built for the 18,000sqm garden – Laak Boorndap. A key section of the deck for the garden is currently being installed near City Road. Like famed New York City’s High Line, Laak Boorndap will be an elevated garden planted on a deck more than eight metres high, and it will connect the creative attractions in the precinct like never before. 

Quotes attributable to Minister for Creative Industries, Colin Brooks 

“Melbourne’s State Theatre holds a special place in Victorian’s hearts. The upgrades will allow this 40-year-old icon to serve Victorians for many years to come, in the heart of our transformed arts precinct.” 

“This major infrastructure project will further cement our reputation as Australia’s cultural capital, while offering exciting career pathways and opportunities for Victorians – and a rare chance to shape the future of a Melbourne icon.”

Quotes attributable to Minister for Development Victoria and Precincts, Harriet Shing

“Every milestone in this transformative project brings us closer to delivering a world-class precinct that reflects Melbourne’s identity as Australia’s arts and culture capital. It’s also a huge opportunity for more people to start their careers in building in this once in a lifetime project.”

Quote attributable to Member for Albert Park, Nina Taylor

“This exciting milestone marks a new chapter for Arts Centre Melbourne. The upgrades will enhance the experience for performers and audiences alike, while strengthening the cultural heart of our city. It’s a proud moment for our local community to see this iconic precinct evolve for future generations.”

Quotes attributable to Karen Quinlan AM, CEO Arts Centre Melbourne 

“These works will benefit every future production staged in the Theatres Building in every venue. Crews will be able to bring sets, costumes and equipment into the building more safely and efficiently, and performers will have a new rehearsal space right next to the State Theatre stage for the first time.”  

Quotes attributable to Civil construction trainee, Connie Tropea, working on the excavation

“After more than 20 years in hairdressing, I knew I wanted a change. It’s been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. Every day on site is a new challenge, and I love that I’m constantly learning and improving. I wouldn’t trade it for anything.”

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