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Formally opened on Diploma Day, 29 August 1882, the Great Hall was the symbolic focus of the College. In its early days, the Great Hall housed the University's small library. Public lectures and formal occasions, such as graduation, were also held there. Over time, the University allowed greater use of the Hall for events such as music recitals and student dances but it was not used for regular lectures (and examinations) until after World War II, when class sizes increased. Nowadays, the Great Hall is in regular use throughout the year for a wide variety of events and performances designed to showcase, celebrate and support local creativity.
The Hall is now in need of major conservation work and a Committee to lead the fund raising for The Arts Centre Great Hall Conservation Project Fund has been established. An estimated $1.5 million dollars is needed. Initially a Conservation Plan will be written – a blueprint for all future conservation work on the Great Hall. Much work is required: the roof needs re-slating, the building needs seismic strengthening, the stained-glass window requires restoration, the interior and exterior stonework and timber will be conserved and the wiring and lighting needs upgrading.
Immediate past chair of The Arts Centre Trust Board, Jenny May, has been appointed Chair of, The Arts Centre Great Hall Conservation Project Fund and Board Trustees Deborah McCormick and Denise Sheat have been appointed as foundation committee members.
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