Marnkutyi Parirna Theatre Official Opens

On Monday 16 October, staff, students and special guests gathered to celebrate the official opening of the new Marnkutyi Parirna (Three Rivers) Theatre.

Marnkutyi Parirna is Kaurna language for Three Rivers. As the six College schools are spread across Gawler and surrounding areas, the name reflects this localised setting acknowledging the North Para River, South Para River and Gawler River with the connecting point known as the Three Rivers site.

The new theatre will give students of all ages the opportunity to showcase their artistic talents and provides multiple leaning and gathering spaces for a wide variety of educational and community uses including dramatic arts, dance and oratory performances, ensembles, soirees, information evenings, social functions and exhibitions.

The College has a strong tradition of performing arts and, a highlight of the official proceedings was the induction of the old scholar and international cabaret artist Libby O’Donovan (1993) as the inaugural inductee in the College Arts Hall of Fame.

In choosing Libby the College considered several criteria including career highlights. Leadership, contribution and character. What set Libby apart was not only her outstanding talent and versatility but also her support and mentorship of emerging artists, as well as her continued support of the College and its students. In 2022 Libby was included on the Queen’s Birthday Honours List when she received a Medal for the Order of Australia for services to jazz and cabaret.