The new Cairns Performing Arts Centre illuminated at twilight
Over the last few months I’ve been working with the Cairns Regional Council and other parties on the architecture and interiors photography of the new Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC). The centre, along with the Munro Martin Parklands across the road, forms the heart of the Cairns Cultural Precinct – providing a support network for emerging talent, drama, music and touring performances. The new building delivers a main auditorium of 940 seats with balcony, fly tower and orchestra pit; a 400 seat Flexible Studio; as well as foyer, bar and amenities, including covered external terrace. The centre also features a function space and back of house facilities including dressing rooms, green room, loading and technical support spaces.
The striking facade features a rust coloured solar screen that wraps around the building and is reminiscent of traditional woven dilly bags and fishing nets in the region’s indigenous culture. Other indigenous elements include “Bagu” sculptures affront the building and ghost net artworks from the Torres Strait islands inside. The foyer area gives a feeling of space and light and features a bar area that opens onto a terraced area in line with Cairns’ relaxed lifestyle.
We were provided access to capture the exterior and interior spaces of the new venue, with and without patrons, both prior to its opening and for it’s historic opening night performance.
