Architecture, Interiors

Cairns Performing Arts Centre

CPAC is set to become Queensland’s largest Regional Performing Arts Centre, and a significant improvement to the cultural opportunities of the citizens of Cairns and visitors to the city. It is an exciting prospect that the Queensland Ballet and the full Queensland Symphony Orchestra along with many other shows will soon be able to perform in a high-quality venue in the heart of the city.

CA Architects were commissioned by the Cairns Regional Council to bring this regional theatre up to international requirements to cater for the specific needs of local arts organisations and major touring companies including the Queensland Symphony Orchestra and Oz Opera among others. It went through a rigorous design process as we investigated the existing building, with specialist Theatre and Acoustic consultants to establish what we can achieve within the constraints of the existing building, including a thorough review of performance requirements and technical aspects for the Back of House.

It was deemed to be a better outcome to demolish the existing and construct an all-new facility. Construction is due to be completed at the end of 2018.

The project was proudly delivered in association with Cox Architecture.

Particular specialist design considerations included:

Acoustic separation between spaces
Control and focussing of reverberant sound
Difference between acoustic requirements for different performance types
Rigging requirements, and strategies for technical access
Lighting design
Building code and DDA issues
Sightlines, performance entry experiences,
Audience seating strategies
Back of House circulation and dressing facilities and strategies to suit large performances
Equipment storage requirements and strategies