Launceston theatre group IO Performance have put in a change-of-use development application for a new theatre space.
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The venue is planned for at 170-180 Cimitiere Street.
The building was formerly used by coolthings.com, which has moved to Thistle Street, South Launceston.
It includes a main space, several smaller rooms, and an upstairs storage room.
It also includes the right-of-way between Spotlight and Neil Buckby Motors.
The company is seeking to use the space as a private rehearsal space of no more than 15 people.
They are additionally seeking to be able to host performances, with an audience capacity of upwards of 80 seats, no more than four times a month.
“It is our hope through these activities to further value add and contribute to the vibrant cultural fabric of Launceston and Tasmania and ensure its sustainability into the future through fostering young and emerging artists to stage their own works,” the development application says.
“It is our hope that the creation of a new rehearsal and performance space within Launceston will further stimulate the growth of the performing arts within our community and beyond.
“We believe that we will provide a valuable space to allow existing and potential theatrical talents within the community … to grow and excel.”
The company, founded about 18 months ago, was born out of “a need to make bold, dangerous and innovative theatre and performance that interrogates the medium, challenging audiences and artists alike,” according to their social media.
“We have worked with the Heritage Council with our application, and there were very supportive of our plan for the space,” IO Performance co-founder Chris Jackson said.
“We’re very concerned with preserving and celebrating the historic value of the building.”
IO Performance hosts workshops on elements of theatre, such as acting and technical production.
It has assisted with productions such as the play Wild, about Edward Snowden, during the 2018 Junction Arts Festival.
The company was co-founded by University of Tasmania associate lecturer, Chris Jackson, and fellow lecturer, Grace Roberts.
The closing date of the development application is January 21, 2019.
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Frances Vinall
Frances Vinall is a journalist at The Examiner, Launceston. Contact her at frances.vinall@examiner.com.au
Frances Vinall is a journalist at The Examiner, Launceston. Contact her at frances.vinall@examiner.com.au
