The Finocchiaro CLP Government's $7.6 million transformation of Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre has been celebrated at the grand opening of its new amphitheatre in Katherine last night.
The completion of the expanded stage and open-air venue for professional outdoor performances is an exciting milestone for the Katherine arts and culture centre, which now boasts more modern facilities for performers and visitors.
Minister for Arts Jinson Charls said the world-class amphitheatre not only enhanced opportunities for local artists but strengthened Katherine as a cultural destination.
"The newly upgraded Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre is a testament to the government's commitment to supporting regional arts and culture with certainty for future generations," he said.
"The ability to experience a performance under the Territory's vast, starry sky in this stunning space is something truly special, and I have no doubt it will leave a lasting impression on visitors and locals alike.
"Our government promised Territorians that 2025 would be a year of action, certainty and security, and we also promised to restore our unique lifestyle, which is exactly what we're doing."
The evening honoured the late Balang T.E. Lewis, a Murrungun man and world-renowned actor, singer, songwriter and cultural leader.
The Darwin Symphony Orchestra, which is touring the NT for the first time in a decade, delivered the inaugural orchestral performance in the new amphitheatre.
The upgrade forms part of the CLP Government's $30 million Arts Trail Gallery Extension Program which seeks to modernise regional galleries and rebuild the economy through local jobs and economic growth for the Territory through construction, arts and tourism.
Member for Katherine Jo Hersey said: "Godinymayin has been a centrepiece in our town for cultural shows and exhibitors alike to come and showcase their art or performance.
"Tommy was part of Katherine's cultural scene through music and performance for a long time and it is a pleasure to celebrate his life and honour him through the naming of the newly built amphitheatre," she said.
"Importantly, this project has also delivered real benefits to our local workforce, supporting around 42 jobs during construction and boosting our economy."
On average, the Katherine and Daly region attracts more than 300,000 visitors a year who spend around $264 million in the region, including 13% of visitors engaging in Aboriginal art and culture activities.
Godinymayin Yijard Rivers Arts and Culture Centre Director Clare Armitage said: "This was a joyful event for Katherine and our region after the long-awaited completion of our new performing arts facilities. It was also an important opportunity to remember someone who gave so much to the arts in the NT, and whose contribution will now be memorialised in the Balang T.E. Lewis amphitheatre."
Fleur Parry, of Djilpin Arts, said: "Holding Space for the art of story, in all its forms, was fundamental to Balang's life and work. The Djilpin Arts family and community are delighted to see his cultural and artistic legacy reflected in the naming of this exciting new development for Katherine and our region."
Image: Darwin Symphony Orchestra performing at the opening of the Balang T.E Lewis amphitheatre in Katherine.
