In London, the Tate Modern, Printworks, Carriageworks in Sydney, and Brisbane’s Powerhouse are examples of repurposed buildings that have found new life as cultural spaces. In Perth, there has been a long debate about the future of the decommissioned East Perth Power Station. Plans have ranged from turning it into a football stadium to a museum, but it has remained unused since 1981. Recently, there was a proposal to develop the site into a mixed-use development, but high-profile backers pulled out, leading to a change in plans towards constructing a high-end hotel instead.
The Cook Labor government aims to recoup the $100 million spent remediating the land by transforming the power station into a high-end hotel. Despite challenges and limitations with the building, there are still many opportunities to transform it into a destination for locals and tourists. The Planning Minister has emphasized that public access will be a given in the building’s future use, hinting at a commitment to keep the space open for all to enjoy. The reimagining of the power station signifies a significant shift towards reviving a neglected area of the city and creating new cultural spaces for the community.
For the Perth Festival 2025, the event will be spread across various locations including The Embassy at Perth Town Hall and a new hub at Forrest Place, which aims to bring vitality to the heart of the city. Inspired by the now-demolished Embassy Ballroom, the festival will revive memories of past entertainment meccas and traditional dance events. This move away from traditional festival launch venues like the Perth Concert Hall signifies a shift towards embracing lesser-known areas of the city and bringing cultural events to a wider audience.
The Festival’s commitment to reaching beyond traditional hubs is highlighted by the selection of the East Perth Power Station as a key venue. This year’s opener, Karla Bidi, will feature light installations, sculptures, and sound art along the river from Guildford to Fremantle, inviting the public to engage with art in unexpected spaces. The Festival Director’s emphasis on showcasing work that connects with the local community reflects a broader shift towards using art as a tool for sparking conversations and engaging with local issues.
Perth Festival Director Iain Grandage has expressed a passion for illuminating the city’s beauty through art and creating welcoming spaces for all. The festival’s move towards activating less traditional venues and embracing communities throughout the urban sprawl demonstrates a commitment to inclusivity and accessibility. As the festival continues to evolve and adapt to changing times, there is a renewed focus on showcasing local talent and creating opportunities for artists to engage with audiences in meaningful ways. The Perth Festival, running from February 7 to March 2, promises to be a celebration of art, culture, and community spirit.
