A Sydney theatre is set for major redevelopment after receiving a multi-million-dollar donation.
To be designed by Tonkin Zulaikha Greer Architects, the redevelopment of SBW Stables Theatre in Sydney’s Kings Cross, home to the Griffin Theatre Company, will see a 44 percent increase in audience capacity, as well as upgrades to dressing rooms, rehearsal spaces and venue accessibility.
The $5 million donation from Neilson Foundation is the single largest philanthropic donation in the theatre company’s history. The redevelopment is also supported by a $5 million commitment from the NSW State government. The funding will also allow the company to purchase the venue from its current owner, the Seaborn, Broughton and Walford (SBW) Foundation.
Established in 1978, the Griffin Theatre is the only theatre company in Australia exclusively devoted to the development and staging of new Australian writing. It has helped to launch the careers of many Australian actors including Cate Blanchett and Jacqueline McKenzie.
According to Griffin Theatre Company artistic director Declan Greene, the company’s mission has been “threatened” many times over the past three decades by funding cuts and prospective evictions. “In this landmark moment in the company’s history, the Neilson’s have made it possible to hold this mission in perpetuity,” said Greene.
“After the turmoil and disruption of lockdowns and restrictions in the last few years, we believe that opportunities for connection and exploration are more important than ever,” said benefactor Neilson Foundation’s Kerr Neilson. “Theatre allows people to explore new perspectives, stories and ideas in ways that digital media will never.”
If approved, redevelopment works will begin in 2023, during which the theatre will be closed. The SBW is expected to reopen again in 2025.
Source: Architecture - architectureau
