The world’s a stage at Young’s Southern Cross Hall
Arts enthusiasts are abuzz following the completion of a major upgrade to Young’s Southern Cross Hall which is now a multi-purpose facility and modern cinema complex for the region.
Artists, dancers, and amateur dramatists are cleaning their brushes, dusting off their dance shoes, and polishing their lines to take centre-stage in the fit-for-purpose centre.
Hilltops Arts Incorporated President Christine Burnett said the upgrade has given the area’s growing arts scene a much-needed boost.
“Hilltops Arts supports so many creative groups and organises the annual Hilltops Off the Beaten Track Arts and Cultural Trail, and Southern Cross Hall is vital for these activities,” Ms Burnett said.
“We tested it out for the first time this year during the 2024 arts trail event and visitors enjoyed performances by students from our local dance studio, the Young Regional Conservatorium and the Hilltops Regional Theatre Company.”
The upgrade is good news for local parents and caregivers too, who until now had been making a lengthy return trip to Cowra to support their aspiring artists, actors, dancers, and musicians at rehearsals and recitals.
President of the Hilltops Regional Theatre Company Carmen Thackery said having a modern local venue will provide exciting opportunities for young people hoping to see their name up in lights.
"The space is ideal for live performances, and the upgraded equipment will really elevate our shows and give our youth members an opportunity to be involved both on stage and behind the scenes,” Ms Thackery said.
Movie buffs will enjoy the upgrades as well. Southern Cross Hall is home to Young’s Cinema which attracts more than seven thousand visitors a year.
Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development Executive Director Harriet Whyte said as well as providing a venue for local artists and performers, the upgraded facility will put Young on the touring map for travelling shows.
“Until now Young hasn’t had a big enough stage or professional equipment to support visiting acts, but now with an upgraded centre, and by teaming up with nearby Cowra to draw bigger names to the Hilltops region, everyone will benefit,” Ms Whyte said.
Built in 1924, the hall is also home to local Tai Chi and Pilates groups and regularly hosts art classes, exhibits, music lessons and community events.
The Hall received $295,245 in NSW Government funding to level and extend the stage, upgrade sound and lighting, improve storage and change areas, and upgrade all toilets to meet accessible standards.