Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre Project Update

Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre Project update.

Connecting Vision to Action.

The strengthening, restoration and redevelopment of Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre is a key element of Rotorua Lakes Council’s Vision 2030 and the Rotorua Way. This vision for Rotorua is guiding the development of a range of key projects and programmes to enhance our district’s strengths as we work with our community and partners to achieve a positive future.

There will be a Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre Project Update will take place at Rotorua Library (1127 Haupapa Street) on Friday 4 October 2019 at 12.30pm.

Come and hear from project lead Cian Elyse White (Rotorua Lakes Council, Performing Arts Director) as she updates the community on what has happened so far and what is next.

A seismic assessment of the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre rated the building at 25% of New Building Standard (NBS). Ratings below 34% NBS are considered earthquake prone and the centre was closed to the public on 5 November 2017.

Prior to closure, the facility was tired and arguably no longer fit for purpose. It also lacked a strong community connection. It had already been determined that, in order to accommodate today’s performing arts needs and expectations, and those of future audiences, the centre needed extensive renovation.

The closure of the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre provided an opportunity to redevelop the building, alongside the seismic improvement, to become an outstanding centre for performing arts in Rotorua and the wider region.

As part of this redevelopment, the brief to architects also required the design to integrate cultural expression reflective of Te Arawa, and in particular Ngāti Whakaue as tangata whenua, ensuring that when it reopens, the centre will be uniquely of its place in Rotorua.

Take this opportunity to find out more about this unique project now that building work is fully funded.

Should you wish to find out more about the Sir Howard Morrison Performing Arts Centre Project visit the following website: www.rotorualakescouncil.nz/transformshmpac