Latrobe City Council in regional Victoria engaged Hawkridge Entertainment Services to complete the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre Operational Review. The Gippsland Performing Arts Centre (GPAC) opened to the public in March 2022 and the centre includes:
- A 750-seat proscenium arch theatre with orchestra pit and fly tower
- Multipurpose meeting and function rooms
- A café, bar and commercial kitchen
- Two open air event spaces, including a large outdoor screen.
- Visitor Information Centre
The Gippsland Performing Arts Centre (GPAC) is a key mechanism to deliver the Latrobe City Council Plan and its central themes of connectedness and creativity. It has commenced the delivery of activities, performances and events to the Traralgon community and Gippsland region and already contributes to supporting the Latrobe City Council Plan as a creative and connected community, and the Community Vision as an innovative and attractive place to live and visit.
Latrobe City Council also operates the Latrobe Performing Arts Centre (LPAC) which offers two additional rehearsal / performance spaces, including a flat floor town hall space (approx. 300 pax, with raised stage) and the Little Theatre (200 pax with raked seating). While not forming part of the GPAC development, this older centre is located in the same precinct and complements the operations at GPAC.
Outline of the review
The aim of this study was to undertake a review to consider operational processes across the centre and precinct as a whole, and assist in developing information to address areas of identified need. The project specifically reviewed four strategic areas:
1. Programming Strategy
Assistance in developing a programming strategy, ensuring a balanced program across performance types, and across commercial, community and council use.
2. Staffing Structure
Review of current staffing structure, including consideration of individual position responsibilities and positions which have additional duties outside of GPAC.
3. Fees and Charges
Assistance with the development of a comprehensive schedule of fees and charges addressing the needs of commercial, community and council users, while supporting the programming, strategy and budgetary parameters.
4. Operations Manual
Assistance with the development of an operations manual, including FOH operations, booking processes, BOH and technical operations, provision of meeting and function services.
How we help
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
- Business case for the Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre
- Operational review of the Paranaple Convention Centre
We deliver 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.