Performance Arts Culture Cessnock

Performance Arts Culture Cessnock is the result of the adaptive re-use of two existing buildings on the corner of Aberdare Road and Vincent Street, Cessnock. The entire complex totals some 2,000sqm and has been designed using contemporary materials and finishes that subtly contrast with the older buildings.

The older section of the complex which houses the art gallery and makers space, holds local and social significance. Originally built by Morris Light, these buildings were constructed as open plan modern furniture display showrooms. Morris Light was at one time the Lord Mayor of Newcastle and was instrumental in raising funds for the Newcastle City Town Hall and Civic Theatre. His Cessnock building was a similar design to his earlier Newcastle showroom in Hunter Street, and was believed to be the first steel framed building in the area. It later became the Grace Brothers store in Cessnock. It is quite significant that Morris Light’s Cessnock showroom is now an integral part of Performance Arts Culture Cessnock.

The plan to undertake a refurbishment of the Cessnock Performing Arts Centre to include an Art Gallery was first noted in ‘2031: A Vision for the Future, Community Infrastructure Plan’ that was adopted by Council on 15 June 2016. A successful funding application was submitted to Create NSW Infrastructure program and development approval was given in 2022. All in all, the refurbishment attracted significant government funding. In addition to Create NSW, funds were also received from Stronger Country Communities, Resources for Regions (both NSW government agencies) and Developer contributions. The newly refurbished area includes: 163 square metre gallery, workshop space and retail area. In addition, the centre was rebranded, CPAC to PACC – Performance Arts Culture Cessnock to reflect the expanded capabilities and uses of the building. Works began in November 2022 and were finalised in July 2023.

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