The theatre received its first major makeover since opening in 1987, with new carpet, 520 seats and aisle lighting all being installed.

The launch included community entertainment, a visual presentation down memory lane, sculptured curtain viewing, 2015 season preview and a behind the scenes tour.

Griffith Regional Theatre director Sarah Boon welcomed the near to capacity auditorium to the season launch, putting into perspective the amount of use the old carpet and chairs had received over the years.

“We are talking about furnishings that were nearly 28-years-old,” Mrs Boon said.

“They have survived 30,000 people a year, that's 30,000 people a year since 1987. Nearly one million people have come through our space, it was time for a change.

“Some of the key things we've done here - we've given you roomier seats. We've put lighting under the timber panels on the sides. We've put LED strips on all the bannisters on each side and LED strips on the steps leading up to the stage.

“We also note that you have a greater experience when you walk into our theatre foyer and bar area.

“Our 2015 program focuses heavily on family theatre where we hope to start that love for the arts at a very early stage.”

Mayor John Dal Broi was a part of the original team that first had the theatre built back in 1987 and once again was on hand to help launch the theatre season.

For Mayor Dal Broi, the launch was a time to not only reflect on the history of the theatre, but also recognise the strides the theatre was taking towards a better future.

“It wasn't an easy decision for council, even though the funds had been put aside for a number of years. We asked if we could make these seats last a bit longer which Sarah, of course, said no,” Mayor Dal Broi said.

“So at council, we debated it, but the majority ruled in favour and we decided to go ahead with the project.

“When Sarah showed the pictures of this theatre with no seats in it, it brought back memories to when this building was being constructed.

“At the time, when council resolved to build this theatre it wasn't a unanimous decision. It was carried by one or two votes, we were still basically a rural council.

“I'd like to thank Sarah Boon and her group of staff here. Since Sarah's been here, we've seen this theatre revitalised, she's really made it work, she's brought in some great shows and great performers.”