Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC)

With more than 150,000 residents, the city of Cairns is the largest regional centre in North Queensland and the gateway to many world class tourist destinations. With the 40-year old Cairns Civic Theatre no longer able to cater for the increased population or meet modern technological requirements, a new Civic offering was required to serve the community.

The Cairns Performing Arts Centre (CPAC) was designed by COX Architecture and CA Architects in collaboration with engineers, Arup, as part of the new Cairns Entertainment Precinct. The CPAC accommodates a 950-seat proscenium arch theatre, a 400-seat flexible studio, and an external performance amphitheatre with capacity for 3,000. In addition to enlarged performance areas, the new building features a 3-storey façade, 9-storey fly tower, new porte cochere, shaded terrace, 1,000-person foyer, larger bar area and increased amenities.

The impressive facade blends into the tropical sky of Far North Queensland with a mosaic of 4,000m² fire-safe Mitsubishi ALPOLIC™/fr panels in Prismatic Snow White and Off-White. Along with an extended 20-year full cover manufacturer’s warranty, which includes materials, labour and rectification costs, the architect’s material selection process was based on a quality finish and proven durability in Australia’s harsh conditions.