Hi-tech and ready to roll
A CHALLENGE has been set for performers on Grafton's newest stage in Market Square - will the show be able to match the structure?
A whopping construction of brick, steel and concrete, the stage has a 115-person capacity and was designed in consultation with the Jacaranda Festival Committee.
Dwarfing the now-demolished old stage, the $300,000 federally funded showpiece is all but finished and is expected to be used for the first time in coming months.
It comes complete with a lockable change room at the rear, three-phase power throughout, in-built uplighting and data points for high-tech shows.
Lighting for the stage is on a timer and comes on as daylight drops till 10pm nightly in this early display phase.
Jacaranda Committee members who toured the site yesterday said they expected they could double the number of seats on offer at this year's Jacaranda Festival.
A removable curtain for the back of the stage is expected to be installed for the festival and it is hoped seeded grass will help clean up the mud on the edge of the new structure in time for Grafton's biggest community event.
The Daily Examiner also took a closer look at the innovative new Out of the Box project right next to the new stage. Photo and story Page 23.
The new stage
Cost: $300,000 - Federal grant
Capacity: 115 people
Architect: Thomson Adsett
Builders: Nanobuild Pty Ltd.
