Entertainment Centre opens with a flourish

The $70 million Albany Entertainment Centre was launched with a bang on Saturday night, with hundreds of the region’s most talented performers showcased.

Culture and the Arts Minister John Day officially opened the venue, saying it was one of the most exciting new performing arts centres in Australia.

An ode was performed by literary identities Dianne Wolfer, Maree Dawes and Kim Scott to open Saturday night’s gala concert, with the trio reflecting on times past, the significance of Aboriginal culture to the region and the exciting times ahead.

About 2300 people are expected to have enjoyed four sell-out performances by the time the curtain closes on this evening’s show.

Audiences were treated to an extravagant culmination of contemporary and classical music and dance, which was the result of four months of planning.

Mr Day said there had been significant positive feedback about the centre, which had already attracted bookings from local, State and national touring companies for next year.

“I’m sure the people of Albany and the Great Southern will embrace this wonderful facility and the opportunities and benefits it will bring to the entire region,” he said.

At a civic ceremony, hosted by radio presenter Eoin Cameron, City of Albany Mayor Milton Evans said the arrival of the opening had brought on tears of joy.

In his speech Mr Evans reflected on the testing times, which were balanced with pride that the new centre had been well received.

“The bridge to nowhere now has a clear destination, linking the old Albany to the 21st century,” he said.

The AEC features the 620-seat Princess Royal Theatre, a 200-seat studio and a cafe overlooking the harbour.