An upgrade for the Ballina Players Theatre is on its way thanks to the NSW Government’s Stronger Country Community Fund.
The grant proposal has been fully funded by the Government and the theatre will receive $138,653 to upgrade their foyer to become a multi-purpose space.
Nationals Member of the Legislative Council Ben Franklin said the upgrade will make going to the Players Theatre and even better experience.
“The Players Theatre provides wonderful cultural and entertainment opportunities for everyone who goes,” Mr Franklin said.
“No-matter if you’re young or old, the Theatre is a great place to go, and I myself can’t wait to go again when the Theatre reopens.
“With the challenging times we’re all facing at the moment, it is so important to have something for people to look forward to, and an afternoon or evening out at the Players theatre is certainly that.”
President of the Ballina Players Theatre Ms Lynn Gough said the grant was very welcome news.
“The members of Ballina Players were delighted when we received confirmation from Hon Ben Franklin MLC that we had received this grant from the Stronger Country Communities Fund,” Ms Gough said.
“The grant will help us renovate our foyer (which at present is looking tired) and enable our patrons to experience a wonderful entrance when arriving for ‘a night at the theatre.’
“Our thanks must go to the Zaat family, for their time and enthusiasm in applying for this grant, John Zaat (architect) for designing such a wonderful space and to Peter Harding and Karen Goodsell for their ongoing and continued support in making this project a reality.”
The foyer will receive a functional and aesthetic upgrade enhancing the ease of buying tickets, drinks and snacks, and include more seating options for people to mingle before a performance. These upgrades will make the space more accessible for people with disabilities and increase the service speed at counters.
Each of the ‘fixtures’ will also be moveable so the foyer can double as a much-needed rehearsal space for the performers.
The Ballina Players are one of the oldest performance groups in Australia so it is very important their tradition can continue on in a safe, modern, functional space.
With their theatre being over 50 years old, the upgrades will be a very welcome addition to the Ballina Players Theatre experience.
In line with the Public Health Order, the Ballina Players Theatre is currently closed but construction work is still permitted to go ahead if the Theatre wishes to start the project.
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