Riverside Theatre MasterPlan. Photos supplied by Parramatta Council
PLANS that will revamp Riverside Theatres have passed through Parramatta City Council with negotiations to source funding set to begin.
Three design options, costing between $38 million and $72 million, were put forward in the masterplan which will ensure the local theatre continues as a growing centre for arts and entertainment.
"The basic infrastructure of Riverside Theatres is ageing and it risks becoming architecturally, technologically and functionality out of date," papers from the council meeting said.
The three options differ in designs around waterfront access, theatre and loading dock configuration and courtyard locations.
But all options include maintaining or expanding three theatre spaces, refurbishing and enlarging the foyer, larger dressing rooms and increased retail and restaurant spaces.
Last year the council agreed to prepare a funding application under the federal government's Regional Development Australia Fund for the Theatre's upgrade and entertainment precinct.
■ Option one
Would retain the majority of the existing building and its 750-seat capacity and revamp the front of house and rehearsal area. It's costed at about $38 million.
■ Option two
Would retain the main structural shell of Riverside and Lennox Theatres but include extensive reconstruction of the interior including re-raking the Riverside Theatre's stall/circle and gallery. It would expand the Riverside Theatres' seating capacity to 950 and is costed at about $55 million.
■ Option three
Would require reconstruction of the entire building and be completed in stages to allow the theatre to continue theatre operation. The eventual seating capacity would be 1100. It is costed at about $72 million.