in 2011 we finally secured funding to perform vital surgery on our beloved venue. The Southern Edge Arts Venue Upgrade, as the project was called, was designed to provide members of Southern Edge Arts and other community users of the SEA venue at 77 on Sanford Rd with improved facilities.

Previously our purpose-built facility was mostly used for rehearsals and workshops and also transformed into a makeshift performance space. However, the number and type of workshops and performances we could host was dictated by the limitations of the space.

The upgrade has provided a modular wooden floor appropriate for the health and safety of youth members, as it was built to have some give in it when landed heavily upon. The installation of theatre grade drapes, along with winch lighting bars and improved seating, now enables transformation of the space into a higher-grade theatre capable of hosting a wider variety of performances. This offers audiences a great theatre experience and provides SEA members with a performance venue they can proudly inhabit for performances, showcase events, workshops and rehearsals.

We are truly thankful to our supporters in this project; namely, the Government of Western Australia, Royalties for Regions, the Great Southern Development Commission and Lotterywest. The investment in our infrastructure they have made through the granting of money for this project will have a lasting impact on our company, our members and our community. Thanks.