Hip hip hooray, it’s Karralyka’s 40th birthday

Karralyka – Maroondah’s premier theatre and function venue – is turning 40 and we want you to be part of the celebrations!

“For four decades, Karralyka has been dedicated to bringing world-class performances to the widest possible local audience, making arts and culture accessible to everyone,” said Maroondah Mayor, Councillor Mike Symon.

“On Sunday 23 February we’ll be hosting a 40th Birthday celebration - to mark this major milestone, held as part of our annual Celebrate Maroondah event series,” Cr Symon said.

Kicking off from 11am on the lawns of the Karralyka building, be prepared to be entertained as we bring you a host of live performances on the main stage, plus a ‘Sideshow Alley’ featuring rides, interactive games, face painting and so much more.

Cr Symon, Chair of the Maroondah Arts and Advisory Committee (MAAC), said the 430-seat theatre venue had served as an integral part of Maroondah’s arts and culture sector.

“Karralyka is the performance centrepiece of our city which has brought people together for an incredible 40 years,” Cr Symon said.

“This year marks a pivotal point in the life of Karralyka: a moment to reflect on the venue’s history as it launches forward into a new decade,” he said.

Each year, the venue attracts tens of thousands of people eager to catch the latest musical stage act, show or comedy performance.

From showbiz names such as Marina Prior, Daryl Braithwaite, Wendy Stapleton, Kate Ceberano and Silvie Paladino, the venue continues to be a drawcard for nationally and internationally renowned acts. It also serves as a platform for up-and-coming performers.

The architecturally award-winning venue first opened its doors to the public on 19 April 1980 as a key regional arts facility, which is owned and managed by Council.

Today, Karralyka remains a popular fixture in Maroondah’s community with weekly performances and recurring events, such as its Toe Tapping Tuesday series.

“Seniors, in particular, appreciate Karralyka not only for its social aspect but because they’re able to access affordable, top-quality entertainment so close to home and without having to travel into the city,” Cr Symon said.

“Maroondah has experienced unprecedented growth in attendance, profile and support for arts and cultural activity across our established venues including the Karralyka, which in 2018-19 alone saw a total 93,529 pass through its doors,” he said.

“Council acknowledges with gratitude the many people who have supported the theatre in great numbers, which is one of the biggest reasons Karralyka has become the mainstay it is today.

“Just as important are the kitchen facilities at Karralyka which are also used to prepare 40,000 meals annually for Council’s Meals on Wheels clients.

Moving into a new decade, Council is excited by plans to enhance and expand the existing facility at a cost of $10 million (subject to external funding). This will greatly improve access for many disability groups in the east that use Karralyka for functions and performances.

“Over the past 40 years, Karralyka has immeasurably enhanced the artistic life of the municipality and we hope it will do the same for the next 40,” Cr Symon added.

“Come on down this Sunday and join us for a Birthday celebration not to be missed!” Cr Symon said.