There's a buzz at Blaxland High School as it moves closer to declaring open its upgraded Performing Arts Centre later this month.
The school's Parents and Citizen's group secured $200,000 for the works in 2019 under the State Government's My Community Project funding.
The centre now has professional standard lighting, upgraded video and audio technology, a motorised lighting grid, a box office and revamped storage facilities.
There have also been upgrades to the change rooms and drama room, as well as improved access for performers during large-scale events.
During the installation of the lighting VET Entertainment Industry Studies students were called upon to assist, under the guidance of industry professionals.
The new equipment was put to use during 2020, via a livestream of the Year 12 graduation, exhibition of all Year 12 major works and presentation assemblies for each year group.
This year the centre will be used for a packed calendar of events, not only with regular music and choral performances, but also the production of the musical Wicked, which will be staged in May.
Wicked will see the return of a number of the 2020 Year 12 students who were cast for roles prior to the COVID-19 disruptions.
This includes Hannah Saad, who placed fifth in the state for HSC Music 2.
"BHS P&C are looking forward to the new upgrades being used to their full effect in the performance of Wicked," said president Robyn Totenhofer.
The centre will be used by community and dance groups after school hours.
