The State Theatre Centre of Western Australia will open with a series of events in January 2011.

Culture and the Arts Minister John Day announced the events today during a tour of the purpose-built performing arts facility in Northbridge.

Read the Minister's statement

“The opening of the Centre will herald a new era for performing arts in Western Australia - it will provide a functional and inspiring venue for performers and audiences, and will also be a defining architectural landmark of the reinvigorated Perth Cultural Centre,” Mr Day said.

“The series of opening events will begin with a civic ceremony on Thursday, January 27, during which the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia will be officially opened.

“This will be followed by an opening matinee and an evening performance on Saturday, January 29.

“Finally, I am very pleased that the doors to this impressive building will be open to the people of WA for a public open day on Sunday, January 30.”

Andrew Lewis, who has experience in film, television and theatre, has been appointed artistic director for the opening performance, which will have a theme of ‘On the Edge’.

“Andrew has a great depth of knowledge of the State’s theatrical scene, and his vision for the gala opening is an entertaining production that celebrates and honours the past while looking to the future,” the Minister said.

“This production will celebrate the success of WA theatre, both locally and on the international stage, and will feature Spare Parts Puppet Theatre, pieces directed by Chrissie Parrott and Matt Lutton, as well as appearances by surprise celebrity artists.”

During the visit today, the Minister showed members of the media through the 575-seat Heath Ledger Theatre, the multi-purpose courtyard and other areas of the building.

“There is a significant amount of work going on to put the finishing touches on this state-of-the-art, sophisticated facility,” Mr Day said.

“Following practical completion, the building will undergo a commissioning phase by the venue managers when the specialised systems and equipment will be installed and tested.

“After the opening performances, the Perth International Arts Festival will be the first event to be held in the centre, in February 2011.”

Information on the progress of the State Theatre Centre of Western Australia is available at http://www.statetheatrecentre.dca.wa.gov.au