The project to revitalise and improve accessibility at Her Majesty's Theatre could soon be realised, with a major election promise to be revealed today.
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Ballarat MP Catherine King and Shadow Arts Minister Tony Burke will announce a $5 million investment for the theatre on Wednesday afternoon, to be provided if Labor is elected on May 18.
The funding will go towards making the theatre Disability Discrimination Act-compliant, restoration works, the installation of lifts at the back and front-of-house, automation of the orchestra pit, better dressing rooms and the extension and improvement of foyer spaces.
The theatre was closed in 2017, with a $7.3 million restoration of cracked roof trusses and stage reconstruction currently under way, funded by City of Ballarat and Heritage Victoria.
"Everyone in Ballarat knows the need to repair the damage to Her Majesty's, mainland Australia's best preserved and longest running theatre," Ms King said.
She said artistic communities rely on buildings like Her Maj, because they are a "place where out stories are enjoyed and celebrated".
During the state election campaign last year, the state Labor government promised $10 million for the suite of theatre construction works.
It is not yet known how quickly money will be released for the project, with the Royal South Street Competition set to return to the venue later this year.
City of Ballarat mayor Samantha McIntosh said upgrades would be "delivered as a matter of urgency" if funded, calling on the Liberals to match the promise.
"Audiences and performers will be able to enjoy a premium entertainment experience in a space which seamlessly blends historical ambiance and modern functionality," she said.