CASULA POWERHOUSE RE-OPENS!

An extensive process of community consultation and workshops was undertaken for the design of the staged conversion of a derelict power station as a multi-use cultural centre for Liverpool City Council. Completed to a very constrained budget, the first two stages, incorporating gallery, studio, office and rehearsal spaces and the theatre shell, were opened in October 1994 and incorporate a range of commissioned public artworks. The third stage followed in 1998.

The Casula Powerhouse combines a large Regional Gallery with arts production and performance spaces, within a heritage-listed disused power station on the Georges River. The heritage fabric of the building is conserved, with new facilities fitted into its exciting, large-scale spaces. The major volume, the Turbine Hall, is a multi-use space for large-scale activities and exhibitions, also providing a performance area with 750 seats.

The fourth stage of work comprises a fully conditioned Regional Gallery, art store, workshop, bookshop, office space and a 350-seat theatre. The Powerhouse serves a range of professional and community groups in the region as well as accommodating touring productions by professional companies, special exhibitions and major one-off events, and has achieved a statewide reputation for innovation and excellence.