Curtain raiser

By Tania Martin
EMERALD could become a theatre hub if two applications for performing arts centres get the go ahead.
La Trobe MP Jason Wood said there was room for two centres in the town, one at Emerald College and one at Gemco.
This follows a suggestion that the two groups meet and discuss their applications.
Ranges Ward councillor Graeme Legge said Cardinia Shire Council has urged the two groups to get together and discuss their applications.
He said it was suggested so that each group could gain a better understanding of the two different proposals.
Emerald College principal Wayne Burgess said the school was more than willing to negotiate a meeting with Gemco to discuss joining the two projects together.
However, David Greenaway from Gemco said he was waiting to hear the outcome of Federal Government funding on the theatre project.
He declined to comment on the suggestion that the school and Gemco’s projects should combine.
Cr Legge said the council hasn’t suggested that the two combine, just that they meet and discuss what each proposal has to offer.
Mr Wood said if the school runs a tight performing arts schedule there will be little time for outsiders such as Gemco or other theatrical groups to use the centre.
“I would like to see both centres go ahead,” he said.
Gemco’s proposal is for a 150-seat auditorium with a large stage, dressing rooms, storage and work areas, a foyer, toilets and undercover disabled access.
The council has agreed to support the development has allocated $250,000 for the project once Gemco has attained State and Federal Government funding.
Meanwhile, Mr Burgess said the school has been working on a proposal for a performing arts centre for the past six months but has not yet put in a formal application to the council.
He said the school proposes to build a $2.3 million complex with a 620 seat capacity.
Mr Burgess said the centre would not only be used by the school but by the local community.
He said it would be similar to the gym where there are nine groups that use it on a weekly basis.
“Our intention is to make it available for a minimum of 300 days per year for community groups,” he said.