BSHS Performing Arts Centre - Construction

The BSHS Performing Arts Centre evolved from the efforts of a small working group of interested parties, that in 1994, was investigating extending the gymnasium to include a stage and the construction an offsite theatre owned by the school.

Meetings with the Ministry and the Building Management Authority initially proved very frustrating.

Fundraising started in earnest with various schemes put into place.

In June 1995, the good news came through that the project had been approved in the State Budget with funding of a million dollars.

The second round of planning started. Standard Education Department guidelines were studied. After discussions with the architects and other concerned parties the final floor plan was decided upon.

The centre was to consist of a sprung floored theatre, a large green room, change rooms and toilets, a wet area for painting and storing props with a truck loading bay, 3 storerooms, a staff study, a laundry, kitchen, bio box overlooking the theatre and a foyer entry.

The centre was designed primarily for several classes to be run at once throughout the building, but it could also house large and small performances very effectively.

Tenders were let and building commenced September 1996. An anxious time of waiting and watching started for the original team who had been working for three years for the dream - our Performing Arts Centre.

July 1997 saw the finish of a fantastic facility that fitted into the overall design of the school.

The dance, drama, the school band and instrumental departments moved into the complex. With more and
more students involved in the performing arts in some capacity the centre was a very valuable addition to Bunbury Senior High School.

Adapted from an article in the BSHS 75th Anniversary magazine.