In September 2021, following the initial production of the Minerva Theatre Feasibility Study, Hawkridge Entertainment Services undertook further work on the proposal for a 1,000 seat theatre on the site by completing a strategic review.
Produced for Create NSW, Hawkridge Entertainment Services worked with Networked Urban Solutions and Scott Carver to deliver the second report. Create NSW are the NSW Government’s arts and cultural driver, which brings together arts, screen and culture functions in an integrated entity. A copy of the Strategic Review is available to be downloaded on the Create NSW website.
The Strategic review took into consideration the following elements:
Introduction
A review on the refurbishment of theatres including commentary regarding the Oh You beautiful stage (OYBS) document and its direct relevance to the Minerva Theatre.
Site analysis
Scott Carver provided analysis of the current site based on information previously obtained as well as other
reports on the theatre to confirm the potential of the Minerva Theatre including review of the following:
- Seating;
- Heritage;
- Foyers;
- Public Amenities;
- Stage;
- Performer Spaces ;
- Dock; and
- Services.
BCA report
A high-level BCA review by Philip Chun including:
- review of the initial concept plans tested by Scott Carver (Appendix 1); and
- provide a series of markups identifying at a high level the key compliance consideration.
Discussion of hirer types and specific performances
Outline of theatres where similar productions have played (“Come from Away” and “Six”) including a brief outline of
the footprint of the theatre, FOH, BOH, seating etc.
Cost Plan
Estimate of the cost of refurbishment by WT Partnership.
The project team concluded that the Minerva Theatre could be refurbished back into a functional 1,000-seat theatre and that if it the theatre was managed commercially and by experienced venue operators it would be viable.
About Create NSW
The entity forms part of the Community Engagement Group within the Department of Premier and Cabinet. It is responsible for furthering Government’s vision for NSW to be known for its bold and exciting arts and culture that engages the community and reflects the state’s rich diversity.
Create NSW invests in the success and future of arts, screen and culture in NSW through infrastructure and funding programs.
They work to achieve the NSW Government’s strategic objectives to develop and sustain the arts, culture and screen sectors. These are built upon the ambitions of excellence, access and strength, and which reflect and support the diverse communities across NSW.
Our work
Hawkridge Entertainment Services provides a range of services for organisations including strategic analysis, feasibility development and business case writing. Some of our recent projects are:
- Report on the economic contribution of Music Venues in NSW
- Coffs Harbour Community and Cultural Facilities Plan 2021-2031
- Economic impact of the Alex Theatre, St Kilda
- Analysis of Venue Booking Software for Ryde City Council
Hawkridge Entertainment Services delivers successful outcomes by finding solutions to complex issues. We listen to stakeholders and complete tasks in the timeframes required.
Other similar projects completed by Hawkridge Entertainment Services are available here.