EOIs called for $150m Queensland Performing Arts Centre's new theatre

Queensland is one step closer to getting a new performing arts venue at the Queensland Performance Art Centre (QPAC) with Expressions of Interest (EOIs) for a managing contractor now open for submission.

The winning contractor is expected to oversee the delivery of the $150 million project.

“The new theatre will further boost our state’s cultural vibrancy, help Queensland attract bigger shows, more visitors, and showcase our unique local arts sector.

“This project is expected to support more than 100 jobs during design and construction and once built, QPAC will become Australia’s largest performing arts centre,” Premier Annastacia Palaszczuk said.

The New Performing Arts Venue (NPAV) is set to have a 1,500-seat theatre that will be able to support the growing number of audience as well as producer demands. The new theatre is anticipated to cater to an additional 300,000 visitors annually once it is operational.

“It will also be a wonderful addition to our internationally-recognised Queensland Cultural Centre, which already attracts millions of visitors every year,” Deputy Premier and Member for South Brisbane Jackie Trad said.

Project location (source: artsQueensland)

According to Arts Minister Leeanne Enoch, the call for EOIs is the first step towards finding a managing contractor that will be help maximise opportunities for businesses in the region as well a create local jobs and “deliver industry innovation”.

“The managing contractor will develop and manage the construction of the new theatre in consultation with the design consultants.

“The new theatre is a significant infrastructure project for Queensland that will leave a lasting mark on the State’s arts and cultural landscape,” Ms Enoch said.

Currently, there are five shortlisted principal design consultants and the list includes:

• Snohetta and Blight Rayner Architecture

• Cox Architecture and AL A

• ARM + m3architecture

• Richard Kirk Architects and Kerry Hill Architects

• Henning Larsen + Wilson Architects (Architects in Association)

The winning managing contractor and principal design consultant are expected to be announced later in 2019.

Interested contractors can submit their tenders through QLD QTenders.

“EOI submissions for the managing contractor will be rigorously assessed against evaluation criteria including relevant experience, capability and capacity, local benefits and best practice principles to develop a shortlist for the next stage tender process.

“We want to ensure we build a state-of-the-art theatre that provides the best audience experience, meets various requirements of artists, companies and performance works, while also maximising local benefits for Queenslanders,” Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said.

The Queensland Government has invested $125 million over a four-year period towards the project, and QPAC has invested $25 million.

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Source: Queensland Government; artsQueensland (1, 2); Queensland Performing Arts Centre