Originally due to be complete in 2022, the $184 million transformation faced delays due to Brisbane\u2019s 2022 floods and complications during construction. The project, which was delivered by the Department of Housing and Public Works with contractor Lendlease, received $159 million funding from the Queensland government and $25 million from QPAC.<\/p>\n
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Behind its glazed envelope, the new addition comprises new foyer spaces, two new studios and a 1,500-seat theatre. Its design recognises the site\u2019s cultural significance to First Nations Peoples, drawing inspiration from a poem by Aboriginal Elder and artist Aunty Lilla Watson for the idea of the waved facade, which Blight Rayner Architecture director Michael Rayner has likened to \u201clooking at fish swimming in rippling water.\u201d<\/p>\n
Rayner commented, \u201cOur intention was to maximise cultural engagement with the public realm in two ways \u2013 one, by enabling people to view into the foyers, the other by positioning a pair of live performance spaces at street level where they are visible from the street and courtyard.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe undulating glass wall acts as a translucent veil through which the solid precast walls encasing the theatre are visible \u2013 these walls align with those of the existing QPAC building as part of the heritage strategy respecting Robin Gibson\u2019s original intent.\u201d<\/p>\n
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A four-metre-high bronze sculpture by Brian Robinson, inspired by Queensland\u2019s native flora and its connection to First Nations Peoples, is situated in the external entry plaza.<\/p>\n
Inside, the auditorium features locally sourced Queensland grey ironbark timber and green carpet that references the state\u2019s rainforests, while the foyer is lined in gold carpet and sand-coloured precast concrete that nod to its beaches. <\/p>\n
A media release from QPAC notes that \u201clearnings from the past 40 years and extensive consultation with local, national and international artists and arts workers informed the design brief, resulting in an enhanced artist and audience experience, increased efficiencies and safety for venue hirers and back of house staff, as well as outstanding acoustics for any kind of performance.\u201d<\/p>\n
Managing director of Sn\u00f8hetta Australasia Gumji Kang commented that the firm drew upon their international experience, employing a collaborative approach and a commitment to deep listening.<\/p>\n
\u201cCoupling design excellence and a culturally contextualised response, we\u2019re confident the Glasshouse Theatre will make a lasting contribution to Brisbane and the State of Queensland,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
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Minister for the Arts John-Paul Langbroek commented, \u201cGlasshouse Theatre is a world-class venue that will make QPAC Australia\u2019s largest performing arts venue under one roof.<\/p>\n
\u201cFrom its stunning architecture and enhanced technical capabilities to its breathtaking facade, Glasshouse Theatre is a game-changer that will put Queensland on the map as a major drawcard for tourists, performers and productions.\u201d<\/p>\n
QPAC chief executive Rachel Healy said the opening of the \u201cQueensland\u2019s newest cultural superstar\u201d was a momentous occasion for the arts in the state.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis 1,500-seat theatre gives us greater capacity to attract world-class talent and Australian exclusives to Queensland \u2026 and forges our reputation as one of Australia\u2019s biggest and busiest cultural precincts as we move towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.<\/p>\n