QPAC DISABILITY ACCESS TO BE UPGRADED

The main theatres at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) will be modified to improve their disability access, Arts Minister Rod Welford announced today.

Mr Welford said modifications to the Lyric Theatre and Concert Hall would be undertaken from November 2008.

“This project will include general maintenance works at QPAC as well as modifications to the two main theatres,” Mr Welford said.

“It will provide more seating choices and easier access for people with a disability and their guests.

“The Lyric Theatre and Concert Hall will be closed for four months from November 2008 to allow for the work.

“The rest of QPAC will remain open during this time and it will be business as usual in the popular Playhouse and Cremorne theatres as well as throughout the Cultural Centre.”

Mr Welford said $1.38 million had been allocated for project in the 2006-07 State Budget.

“The work involves the installation of a ramp from the ticket office to the stalls area of the two theatres, additional wheelchair seats in the theatres and an additional toilet facility for persons with a disability,” he said.

“There will also be modifications to the bar, box office and cloak room counter heights.”

Mr Welford said November 2008 was the earliest possible time the works could occur while ensuring the least inconvenience for both hirers and patrons.

“The popularity of our leading performing arts centre means that it is heavily booked over the next 18 months,” Mr Welford said.

“The works are expected to be completed by February 2009.”