Ipswich City Council

Festival of Theatre Media

Civic Hall Re-opens to Launch 2008 Festival Season

7 March 2008

IPSWICH Civic Hall officially re-opens this weekend after a three-month closure for a $1 million upgrade.

An enlarged kitchen/servery area equipped with new ovens is among the latest enhancements to the 33-year-old facility which also boasts improved disability access, upgraded digital sound and lighting and new seating.

Arts, Community and Cultural Services Committee Chairperson, Councillor Charlie Pisasale, said the re-opening was scheduled to coincide with Civic Hall's first event for the year - the 2008 Ipswich Chamber of Commerce Business Awards - on Saturday night.

"More than 300 people attending the awards dinner will be the first to sample the results of the improved facilities," Cr Pisasale said.

"Visitors may not even notice the major changes due to much of the building work being done ‘behind the scenes' in the kitchen and bathrooms.

"However, while the outward appearance is relatively unchanged, the renovations were much-needed and the public's patience while work has been carried out is very much appreciated."

Cr Pisasale said Civic Hall's latest refurbishments to the kitchen and servery area were complemented by the up-skilling of catering staff who were continuing hospitality training to maintain the facility's reputation for a high standard of service.

"The upgrade to the Civic Hall has thankfully not had an adverse effect on bookings for the 2008 Festival of Theatre, with a number of shows already sold out months in advance," Cr Pisasale said.

"Despite the Box Office being physically relocated to Ipswich Mall for the past three months, bookings for upcoming events have been overwhelming.

"This is largely due to the introduction of internet bookings for the 2008 season with more than 25 per cent of customers booking online."

As of Monday, the Civic Hall Box Office will operate as normal from its regular location at the corner of Limestone and Nicholas streets, Ipswich. For more information, telephone (07) 3810 6100 or visit the website at http://www.ipswichcivichall.com.au/ .

-ENDS-

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Last Updated 7 Mar 2008 |

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