Since its opening in 1991, GWPAC has been home to theatre, live music and community events. It offers a stage for creative expression, performance and recognition.
One of Victoria's largest venues, the Centre boasts a seating capacity of 895 and allows many people and friends of the School to experience the joy of performing arts, in synergy with the scenic School grounds.
After undergoing extensive renovations in 2019, it is now equipped with state of the art lighting, sound, vision and automated flying systems which allows it to host a range of exciting and diverse events.
An incredible facility! The Centre is truly high standard, the staff, seating, acoustics & other facilities were second to none. A great attribute for the area!
Venue Hirer
2022
Annually
200+
Events
150,000+
Audience Members
Our Vision
To offer the most valuable performing arts experience to all users.
Our Mission
We are a venue that strives to offer a professional performing arts experience to all users.
To engage with users to understand their needs.
To develop their vision, goals and knowledge.
To provide an experience that is above and beyond.
Our Values
- Accessibility
- Creativity
- Diversity
- Excellence
- Professionalism
Our Story
George Wood Performing Arts Centre began as a conversation between the Headmaster, George Wood, and staff as early as 1986, and was officially introduced at a meeting of the Council’s Education Committee on 3 February 1987. A building was in plans to act as the stage for the school community and commemorate Yarra Valley Anglican School’s 25th birthday.
Plans were underway. The prospect of a network of voices congregating in one space came full circle – it took off as a community effort. The Foundation, a cornerstone of the Yarra community, was created specifically to bring GWPAC to life. George Wood, its namesake, was a monumentally significant figure to the Yarra we know today – a man best known for his quiet and kind spirit, his calm tenacity, his ever-present blue suits.
The firm of Clarke, Hopkins and Clarke was signed on to provide architectural services, and C.D Mason Constructions Pty Ltd to construct the building. A proficient business man in advertising, John Baldwin embraced the task – he and his wife Meredith, a valued Council member, at the helm.
GWPAC lives as a tribute to the old ideal: we are the community that makes us as individuals. When we walk inside it, we sense its history: a living, breathing story.
