WA Government to take back management of its major theatres

The West Australian Government will take back management of its theatres –  His Majesty’s, State Theatre Centre, Perth Concert Hall and Subiaco Arts Centre – from January 1, 2015.

These theatres have been run for the past 15 years by venue operator AEG Ogden. The theatres will operate under the Perth Theatre Trust, which will hire 60 more staff to handle management.

The changes come after an independent review last year. Arts Minister John Day felt the move will bring a closer relationship between venue hirers and resident companies.

Under the new regime, about $1 million of the state’s $9 million annual subsidy for the venues can now be freed up to provide a greater diversity of shows. The Government will also manage Albany Entertainment Centre for an additional year, until June 30, 2015.