Edith Cowan University has officially revealed the name for the Western Australian Academy of Performing Arts' new, highly anticipated home. The landmark $695 million facility will be known as the Centre for Performance Excellence.
A New Era for Performing Arts in Western Australia
The announcement marks a significant step forward for one of Australia's most prestigious performing arts institutions. The new centre is currently under construction at ECU's Mount Lawley campus, directly opposite the existing WAAPA buildings. This strategic location is designed to create a seamless and expanded arts precinct.
ECU Vice-Chancellor Professor Steve Chapman emphasised the name's significance. He stated it perfectly captures the university's ambition for the venue. The Centre for Performance Excellence is envisioned not just as a building, but as a hub for nurturing world-class talent and achieving artistic brilliance.
The project represents a massive investment in Western Australia's cultural future. With a total budget of $695 million, the state-of-the-art complex is one of the largest commitments to performing arts education in the nation's recent history.
Design and Construction Timeline
Construction on the ambitious project is progressing steadily. Major contractor Multiplex is leading the build, with the project currently in its second phase. The first phase, which involved substantial demolition and site preparation, was completed last year.
The design promises to deliver cutting-edge facilities for WAAPA's students and staff. The centre will feature:
- Advanced, acoustically engineered theatres and performance spaces.
- Specialist studios for dance, music, and acting.
- Modern teaching and collaborative learning areas.
- Enhanced public spaces to connect the academy with the community.
The official opening is scheduled for 2026. This timeline will see WAAPA's operations gradually transition into the new Centre for Performance Excellence, ensuring minimal disruption to the acclaimed academic programs.
Securing WAAPA's Legacy and Future
The naming of the Centre for Performance Excellence is more than a logistical step; it is a statement of intent. For years, WAAPA has produced an extraordinary roster of award-winning actors, musicians, dancers, and production staff who have excelled on global stages.
This new facility is designed to secure that legacy for future generations. It aims to provide the physical infrastructure needed to match the institution's international reputation. The upgrade will allow WAAPA to continue attracting the best students and teaching professionals from across Australia and overseas.
The development is also a boon for the Mount Lawley area and Perth's broader cultural scene. A venue of this calibre is expected to become a new landmark, hosting public performances and events that enrich the state's artistic landscape.
With the name now unveiled and construction forging ahead, the Centre for Performance Excellence is set to redefine arts education in Western Australia. It stands as a testament to the value placed on the performing arts and a confident investment in the creative professionals of tomorrow.
