A recent article in the Sydney Morning Herald has outlined the concept plans commissioned by the NSW government for the Minerva Theatre and delivered by Hawkridge Entertainment Services. They show that refurbishment of the 1930s art deco gem could accommodate a seated audience of 1000, the optimal number at which producers believe they can make the theatre viable.
The analysis updates a February 2021 feasibility study, co-funded by NSW government and the City of Sydney. The government’s arts agency Create NSW undertook a further examination of the Minerva.
Hawkridge Entertainment Services completed the initial analysis and the further review of the viability of the project for Create NSW. The projects were undertaken with:
Arts Minister Don Harwin called for the new analysis, completed in September, after rejecting plans by Central Element and Arup to turn the Minerva into a hotel with smaller performance spaces.
Theatre producer John Frost, said there was market demand to use the theatre including commercial producers of theatre, music and comedy; the performing arts companies including Sydney Dance, Bangarra, Sydney Theatre Company, the Hayes; and festivals including the Sydney Festival, The Sydney Fringe, the Sydney Film Festival Centre for Ideas.
The campaign to save the Minerva is also supported by singer Marcia Hines: “I ask you to find in your hearts and souls a pragmatic way to provide the city and state with their reinvented and refurbished[Minerva]theatre.”
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.