The future of Geelong’s live performances is taking shape as progress continues on the interior restoration of The Church.
Construction on the Ryrie Street artist-led venue continues to progress, with it set to open in 2026 as an extension of the Geelong Arts Centre.
Chief executive and creative director Rhys Holden said the new venue would deliver an affordable and accessible space for regional artists to create and present their work.
“It’s great to work with so many local contractors on returning this building to the community… and it feels very special to finally be able to eventually reopen The Church space,” he said.
“We’re not doing something new; we’re returning it to exactly what it was, which is a low-cost and affordable community space where there are no barriers to being able to put on a show.
“The work has been huge with lots of steel going in, and acoustic treatment, but it’s going very quickly. We’re very excited to open in February and see the first local live musician take the stage.”
Minister for Creative Industries Colin Brooks said the redevelopment and expansion of Geelong Arts Centre made it the largest dedicated regional arts centre nationwide.
“It’s great to see the level of ambition as the wonderful heritage building is made available for people who are really emerging and trying to break into the scene,” he said.
“This is going to be a staggeringly exciting venue for people to perform in… and it’s going to be a real shot in the arm for local musos in the area and breathe life into the local music scene.”
Two Geelong musicians said they looked forward to seeing the venue open to emerging artists.
“I’m hoping to experiment with new works and see my peers, who are working on independent theatre, music and comedy, have a space where they can try new things,” Connor Morel said.
“When you’re first starting out, it can be hard to break through and play somewhere, like this, so I’m so excited that it’s happening and I’m happy to be a part of it,” Rose Miller said.
