The stage is set for a new era of performing arts in Lake Macquarie with the opening of the historic Rathmines Theatre after a multimillion-dollar renovation.
The building has been renewed inside and out as part of a $3.3 million refurbishment jointly funded by the NSW government and Lake Macquarie City Council.
The overhaul of the former RAAF building, funded by the state under its Stronger Country Communities Fund, included an internal fit-out, new bathrooms, audio-visual equipment, disabled parking, an accessible ramp and landscaping.
Lake Macquarie mayor Kay Fraser, who joined Lake Macquarie state MP Greg Piper to inspect the theatre's upgrades on Friday, said the project had given the historic building a new lease of life.
"The refreshed facility will help to reinvigorate the cultural scene in western Lake Macquarie and will deliver significant economic benefits to the area," she said.
"This state-of-the-art facility offers a place for performers to take centre stage and share their talents with the community.
"It is also home to the heritage centre, a place where our community can visit to learn about the history of Rathmines and Lake Macquarie."
Also known as the community hall, the theatre had been closed since October 2015. The council began working towards the upgrade shortly after but the restoration project was delayed for an extended period after the discovery of asbestos, which has since been removed.
The facility is now available for hire via expression of interests but the council has had to delay some of the events it had planned for the venue due to COVID-19.
The council's manager arts, culture and tourism, Jacqui Hemsley, said the redeveloped venue would provide further opportunities for the arts community and be an ideal tourism destination.
"Rathmines Theatre will offer unique programs and exhibitions unlike anything Lake Macquarie has experienced before," she said.
"This revived venue provides a space for performance artists to be inspired and connect with their audience attracting visitors from across the region to our city to experience something memorable."
Parliamentary Secretary for the Hunter, Catherine Cusack, said the building's reopening would make a positive contribution to the social and cultural fabric of west Lake Macquarie.
"This upgraded theatre ensures that we will continue to attract and host productions for many years to come - introducing younger generations, and welcoming visitors, to the magic of theatre," she said.
"This is exactly the kind of project the Stronger Country Communities Fund is designed to deliver, projects, upgrades and amenities that make a big difference to everyday life."
The theatre is situated in Rathmines Park, a precinct the council has developed a master plan for. The plan is on exhibition until August 7.
The theatre can be toured on Saturday, August 8. Bookings are essential and can be made at eventbrite.com.au or by calling 4921 0556.
