Work has begun on a major internal refurbishment of the Hopgood Theatre, with the $6 million project to breathe new life into the beloved southern facility.

TAFE SA has completed refurbishment of the theatre roof and the City of Onkaparinga has just started the building’s internal revitalisation.

Works will include flooring, enhanced lighting and sound, improved bathrooms, a revamped front of house and bar, and superior backstage facilities – enhancing the experience for patrons and performers.

City of Onkaparinga Mayor Moira Were says the upgrades will usher in a new era for the Hopgood.

“The Hopgood Theatre has been the home of performing arts in the south since 1985, and this project will ensure it continues to serve the community for decades to come,” she says.

“This refurbishment responds to community feedback and will result in a technologically superior and more modern theatre to help attract a broader range of performances and make for a more engaging audience experience.

“I can’t wait to see it open by the end of 2025 and to see the return of arts lovers, schools and local, national and international acts.”

The $6 million state government-funded refurbishment was announced in 2022 in a landmark deal that also saw the council take on management of the theatre under a 25-year lease agreement with TAFE SA.

The announcement followed tireless campaigning from the community and the council to save the Hopgood after the state government announced plans to discontinue funding the theatre in 2019.

The 492-seat capacity Hopgood is the largest theatre of its kind in suburban Adelaide, attracting thousands of attendees each year.

To stay up to date with the refurbishment’s progress, visit the Your Say Onkaparinga webpage.